Gastric residence system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure is in the field of gastric resident systems. A device for extended retention in a stomach is provided. The device includes: first, second, and third arms, the second and third arms being connected to respective ends of the first arm. The device is configured to transform between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. The device further includes a biasing member configured to bias the device into the expanded configuration whereby the second and third arms are configured to mechanically engage each other to retain the system in the expanded configuration.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/903,765, filedJun. 17, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/465,231,filed May 30, 2019 (now U.S. Pat. No. 10,737,079), which is a 371National Stage application of PCT/US2017/064417 filed Dec. 4, 2017,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/429,095,filed Dec. 2, 2016 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/430,166,filed Dec. 5, 2016, the entire contents of each of which areincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a pharmaceutical product or system.More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an oralpharmaceutical or gastric residence system or gastroretentive dosageform and formulations relating thereto.

BACKGROUND

Gastric residence systems (GRS) are delivery systems which remain in thestomach for extended periods of time. They enable oral delivery of anactive pharmaceutical ingredient (API), diagnostic or electronic deviceetc. to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, for example for the purpose ofextended GI residence, for local treatment of the upper GI, forcontinuous exposure of drugs especially those with a narrow absorptionwindow or low solubility in the intestine. Gastric residence systemsfall within three areas of technology: namely floating systems,bio-adhesives and systems with expanding geometry through swelling orunfolding.

Folding systems are conveniently administered to a patient in a foldedor compacted form for example via a capsule. Once in the stomach,dissolution of the capsule in the stomach results in the systemexpanding or unfolding to a size which resists passage through thepyloric sphincter over the desired residence period. Examples of suchsystems are described in the following publications: U.S. Pat. No.4,735,804, PCT/US2015/033850, PCT/US2015/035423, PCT/IB2011/002888.

Requirements for effective folding systems include providing a safe andpharmaceutically acceptable system which is compact for swallowing,unfold to effective expanded systems that can endure the mechanicallyand chemically harsh environment of the stomach for a desired residenceperiod and eventually exit the stomach safely and in a timely manner.The present disclosure describes advancements in the design of improvedstructures for extended residence in the stomach.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are defined in the accompanying claims.

According to a first aspect, there is provided a device for extendedretention in a human stomach. The device includes a first arm having afirst end and a second opposing end, a second arm and a third arm, thesecond and third arms being pivotally connected to the first end and thesecond end of the first arm, respectively. The device is configured totransform between a compressed configuration and an expandedconfiguration. The device further includes a biasing member configuredto bias the device into the expanded configuration. In the expandedconfiguration the second and third arms are configured to mechanicallyengage each other to retain the device in the expanded configuration.

A portion of the second arm distal from the first arm and a portion ofthe third arm distal from the first arm may be configured tomechanically engage each other in the expanded configuration.

The third arm may include a retaining surface against which the secondarm engages when the device is in the expanded configuration.

The third arm may include a protrusion against which the second armengages when the device is in the expanded configuration.

The protrusion may be provided at an opposite end of the third arm tothe first arm and wherein in the expanded configuration, the end of thesecond arm distal to the first arm may engage with the protrusion toform an apex.

During transformation from the compressed configuration to the expandedconfiguration, an outer surface of the second arm may be configured toslide along the third arm.

The third arm may include an elongate protrusion along its length andthe second arm may include a recess configured to cooperate with theelongate protrusion during transformation from the compressedconfiguration to the expanded configuration.

In the expanded configuration the first, second and third arms may beconfigured to form a generally triangular shape.

A smallest turning radius of the triangular shape may be between 20 and35 mm.

In the compressed configuration, the second arm may be configured tooverlay the first arm and the third arm may be configured to overlay thesecond arm.

The second and third arms may be shaped such that an inner surface ofthe third arm has a corresponding shape to an outer surface of thesecond arm and an inner surface of the second arm has a correspondingshape to an outer surface of the first arm.

The biasing member may include an elongate member configured to bias thesecond arm.

The second arm may include a recess or protrusion configured to engage aportion of the biasing member when the device is in the expandedconfiguration.

The biasing member may include at least one of: an elastic leaf spring,a helical spring attached to a rigid member and a super porous hydrogel.

The device may further include a retainer configured to retain thedevice in the compressed configuration.

The retainer may include a wrapper, capsule or band surrounding thedevice thereby retaining the device in the compressed configuration.

The retainer may be configured to erode upon exposure to gastric fluid.

After a predetermined time period in the expanded configuration, thedevice may be configured to disassemble.

Disassembly of the device may include disconnection of the second and/orthird arms from the first arm.

Upon disconnection of the second and/or third arms from the first arm,the second and third arms may be configured to disconnect from eachother.

The first arm may include a cavity. The cavity may be formed from theinterior of the sleeve or tube. The cavity may be configured to containan erodible insert, diagnostic or electronic device. The erodible insertcan include a pharmaceutical, diagnostic or electronic device.

The first arm may include an opening through which gastric fluid canenter the cavity.

The first arm may include a sleeve or tube. The tube or sleeve mayprovide a cavity. The sleeve or tube may comprise one or more sealingelements optionally at each end of the sleeve or tube

The first arm may include an erodible insert, such as an erodibleformulation or diagnostic.

Exposure of the erodible insert to gastric fluid for a predeterminedtime period may result in erosion of the erodible insert which isconfigured to cause the system to disassemble.

The first arm may include an erodible insert preferably an erodibleformulation and the erodible formulation may be located in the cavity.

The sealing elements may each include at least one retaining elementconfigured to extend into the sleeve or tube and the retaining elementsmay be located between the erodible insert and the sleeve or tube.

The erodible insert may be configured to provide an expansive force onthe retaining elements thereby retaining the sealing elements in thesleeve or tube. Upon erosion of the erodible insert, the expansive forcemay be removed and the sealing elements may be configured to disassemblefrom the sleeve or tube. According to a further aspect there is provideda gastroretentive dosage form including a system as described abovewherein the erodible insert is includes a pharmaceutical, diagnostic, orelectronic device.

According to another aspect, a device is provided, the device includes afirst arm having a first end and a second opposing end; a second armpivotally connected to the first end of the first arm, a third armpivotally connected to the second end of the first arm; and a biasingmember connected to the second end of the first arm, said biasing memberconfigured to transition the device from a compressed configuration toan expanded configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration thesecond arm and the third arm are mechanically engaged with each other toretain the device in the expanded configuration.

According to another aspect a method of preparing a gastroretentivedosage form is provided. The method includes: providing the devicedescribed above, inserting an erodible formulation preferably apharmaceutical, diagnostic, electronic device or combination thereof inthe device described above, compressing the device into a compressedstate, locating the compressed state device within a retainer to retainit in the compressed state suitable for ingestion.

According to a further aspect a method of preparing a gastroretentivedosage form is provided. The method includes providing material forinjection molding; injection molding individual parts including a first,second and third arm; optionally coating one or more arm(s) with entericpolymers; inserting an erodible formulation preferably comprising apharmaceutical, diagnostic or electronic device into a first arm;connecting said first, second and third arm in the form of a triangle;and optionally compressing said triangular shaped system into aretainer. All materials may be pharmaceutically acceptable.

According to a still further aspect, a method of delivering an activepharmaceutical, device or diagnostic to the stomach for extended periodsof time including providing a device as described above or a system asdescribed above wherein one of the first, second and third arms incudesan active pharmaceutical, device or diagnostic is provided.

A yet further aspect provides a kit of parts for assembly into thedevice described above. The kit includes first, second and third arms,and a biasing member.

According to a further aspect a kit for assembling a device describedabove is provided. The kit includes an expanded configuration of thedevice as described above and a retainer. Alternatively, the kit mayinclude first, second and third arms of the device as described above, abiasing member and a retainer.

Any of the kits described can further include an erodible formulation,preferably comprising a pharmaceutical, diagnostic or electronic device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The teachings of the present disclosure will now be described by way ofexample only with reference to the following drawings in which likeparts are depicted by like reference numerals:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic front views of a gastric residence systemin an expanded configuration;

FIG. 2A is a cross sectional view of an erodible insert contained withinan arm of the gastric residence system of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 2B is a schematic front view of the gastric residence system ofFIGS. 1A and 1B illustrating the erodible insert located within thesystem;

FIG. 3A and 3B are simplified drawings of the gastric residence systemof FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 3C is a simplified drawing of the hyphenated area in FIG. 3B;

FIG. 4A is a front view of the gastric residence system of FIGS. 1A and1B in a compressed configuration;

FIG. 4B is a simplified drawing of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a vertically distorted version of FIG. 4B;

FIG. 5 is a simplified drawing of the transition of a gastric residencesystem from a compressed state to an expanded state;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of the process which a gastric residence systemundergoes in use;

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrates a sequence of simplified drawings showing thechange in the erodible insert within the gastric residence system ofFIGS. 1A-1B over time;

FIG. 8 is a simplified drawing of the gastric residence system of FIGS.1A-1B in use;

FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate simplified drawings of the expanded state anddisassembled states of the gastric residence system of FIGS. 1A-1B;

FIG. 10 is a front view of a gastric residence system in an expandedconfiguration;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the gastric residence system ofFIG. 10 ;

FIGS. 12A-C illustrate a close up view of a locking mechanism of thegastric residence system of FIG. 10 , in which: FIG. 12A illustrates theengagement of arms 2001 and 2002 when locked together, FIG. 12B showshow planes 2001 c and 2002 c are angled such that the contact betweenthe plane 2001 c and the plane 2002 c keeps arm 2001 locked with arm2002, and FIG. 12C depicts how plane 2001 c contacts plane 2002 c when aradial force F1 is applied externally;

FIG. 13 illustrates a close up view of a guiding or sliding mechanism ofthe gastric residence system of FIG. 10 ;

FIG. 14A is a front view of the gastric residence system of FIG. 10 in acompressed configuration;

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the gastric residence system ofFIG. 10 in a compressed configuration;

FIGS. 15A-15D are cross-sectional views illustrating the disassembly ofthe gastric residence system of FIG. 10 ;

FIGS. 16A-16C are cross-section views of an alternative arrangement of abiasing element of the gastric residence system of FIG. 10 ;

FIG. 17 is a front view of an alternative gastric residence system in anexpanded configuration;

FIGS. 18A-18C are x-ray imaging photographs of an exemplary residencestructure according to one example in the GI of a human subject.

FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate arms and hinge of the gastric residencesystem shown in FIG. 10 ;

FIGS. 19C and 19D illustrate views of a sleeve of the gastric residencesystem shown in FIG. 10 ;

FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate a method of measuring the opening force viacalculation of a minimum force applied to the device in the compressedstate which prevents opening, and FIGS. 20C and 20D illustrate a measureof the rigidity of structure under a compression force applied to theapex of the device in the expanded state of a comparative example andthe present gastric residence system disclosed herein.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example inthe drawings and are herein described in detail. It should beunderstood, however, that the drawings and detailed description of thespecific embodiments are not intended to limit the invention to theparticular forms disclosed. On the contrary, the invention is intendedto cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling withinthe spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appendedclaims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Definitions

The wording herein below is implied in the common meaning of thedefinitions and statements as known to those skilled in the art.However, there are several terms that should be understood in theconcept of the present disclosure as follows:

“Gastroretentive device” refers to a mechanical device which is capableof residing in the stomach for a period of time. The device of thepresent disclosure provides a means for introducing an activepharmaceutical ingredient, diagnostic or electronic device for exampleinto a subject. In the examples of the present disclosure this may be inthe form of an erodible insert.

“Gastric residence system” or “gastroretentive delivery system” or “GRS”refer to a gastroretentive device containing an erodible insert or othermeans of timed disassembly of the device.

As used herein, the “erodible insert” is any formulation, material orcomposition which is capable of degradation, dissolution downsizingand/or disintegration based on exposure to gastric environment orsimulated methods thereof.

“Gastroretentive dosage form(s)” (GRDF or GRDFs in the plural) refers todosage forms which reside in the confines of the stomach for the purposeof providing a platform for the controlled release of biologicallyactive agents or diagnostic formulations. In the present disclosure agastroretentive dosage form refers to a gastric residence system thatincludes an active pharmaceutical ingredient, diagnostic or electronicdevice for example. The GRDF is also referred to herein as an oralpharmaceutical, as well as a dosage form for extended retention in astomach.

“Gastric retention” is the maintenance or holding of an agent, forexample a pharmaceutical, diagnostic or electronic device in thestomach, for a time period longer than the time it would have beenretained in the stomach when delivered in a free form or within agastro-intestinal (GI) delivery vehicle which is not consideredgastroretentive. Gastro-retentivity may be characterized by retention inthe stomach for a period that is longer than the normal emptying timefrom the stomach, such as longer than about 2 hours, in some caseslonger than about 3 hours, and in many cases more than about 4, 6, 8 or10 hours. Gastro-retentivity typically means retention in the stomachfor a period of time of about 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, or at times 18 hours, evenup to about 21 hours or longer. Gastro-retentivity may also meanretention in the stomach for a predetermined time period of at least 4,6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, 168 hours or longer.

“Gastro-intestinal retention” is the maintenance or holding of an agent,for example a pharmaceutical, diagnostic, electronic device or microchipin the gastrointestinal track [herein “GI”] for a time period longerthan the time it would have been retained in the GI when delivered in afree form or within a gastro-intestinal (GI) delivery vehicle which isnot considered GI retentive. GI retentivity may be characterized byretention in the GI for a period that is longer than the normal emptyingtime from the GI, such as longer than about 24 hours, 48, 72, 96, 120,144, 168hr or longer.

As used herein, a size “suitable for swallowing” is any size and/orshape that are capable of being safely swallowed by either a human or ananimal. Unless specified otherwise, size for retention or reference toanatomy such as stomach or pyloric valve are in reference a human.

As used herein, a “body” is meant to include any collection of parts ormaterials that are more or less constrained or otherwise connected tomove together by translation or rotation.

As used herein, “excipient” refers to an ingredient, or mixture ofingredients, that is used in the formulation of the compositions(including but not limited to the insert, the body parts—arm, etc.) ofthe present disclosure to give desirable characteristics to thecomposition or insert. As used herein, the term “pharmaceuticallyacceptable” refers to those compounds, materials, compositions,compacts, salts, and/or dosage forms which are, within the scope ofsound medical judgment, suitable for contact with the tissues of humanbeings and animals without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergicresponse, or other problematic complications over the desired durationof treatment commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio. In someembodiments, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” means approved by aregulatory agency of the Federal or a state government, such as theInactive Ingredient Database of the FDA or listed in the U.S.Pharmacopeia or other generally recognized international pharmacopeiafor use in animals, and more particularly in humans. Variouspharmaceutically acceptable excipients can be used. In some embodiments,the pharmaceutically acceptable excipient can be, but is not limited to,an alkaline agent, a stabilizer, an adhesion agent, a separating agent,a coating agent, an exterior phase component, a controlled-releasecomponent, a solvent, a surfactant, a humectant, a buffering agent, afiller, an emollient, or combinations thereof. Excipients in addition tothose discussed herein can include excipients listed in, though notlimited to, Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 21st ed.(2005). Inclusion of an excipient in a particular classification herein(e.g., “solvent”) is intended to illustrate rather than limit the roleof the excipient. A particular excipient can fall within multipleclassifications.

As used herein, an “oral pharmaceutical” is anything administered orallywhose components are made up of pharmaceutically acceptable materials.

As used herein, “diagnostic” or “an active pharmaceutical ingredient(API)” is meant to include any substance relevant for gastric retentionas recognized in the art. A wide variety of APIs (which may betherapeutic, diagnostic or otherwise beneficial) may be employed inaccordance with the aspects of the present disclosure. Any agent, forexample an API or diagnostic which is relevant for gastric retentivedelivery is intended to be encompassed herein. Relevant APIs are notlimited to, but may include the following: APIs acting locally in thestomach; APIs primarily absorbed in the stomach; APIs poorly soluble inalkaline pH; APIs with narrow windows of absorption; APIs with poorpatient adherence; APIs absorbed rapidly from the GI tract; APIs thatdegrade in the colon; and APIs that disturb colonic microbes.Diagnostics include medical imaging systems (e.g. scanner, MRI, camera,gastric stimulator, radiolabeled agents and the like. Electronic devicesinclude microchips, imaging systems, transmitters and the like.

As used herein, the term “therapeutic agent” or also referred to as a“active agent”, “active” or “active pharmaceutical ingredients” refersto an agent that is administered to a subject to treat a disease,disorder, or other clinically recognized condition, or for prophylacticpurposes, and has a clinically significant effect on the body of thesubject to treat and/or prevent the disease, disorder, or condition.Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) may include but are not limitedto the following: prochlorperazine edisylate, ferrous sulfate,albuterol, aminocaproic acid, mecamylamine hydrochloride, procainamidehydrochloride, amphetamine sulfate, methamphetamine hydrochloride,benzphetamine hydrochloride, isoproterenol sulfate, bismuth salts,colchicine, phenmetrazine hydrochloride, bethanechol chloride,methacholine chloride, pilocarpine hydrochloride, atropine sulfate,scopolamine bromide, isopropamide iodide, tridihexethyl chloride,phenformin hydrochloride, metformin, methylphenidate hydrochloride,theophylline cholinate, cephalexin hydrochloride, diphenidol, meclizinehydrochloride, prochlorperazine maleate, phenoxybenzamine,thiethylperazine maleate, anisindione, diphenadione erythrityltetranitrate, digoxin, isoflurophate, acetazolamide, nifedipine,methazolamide, bendroflumethiazide, chlorpropamide, glipizide,glyburide, gliclazide, 4-aminopyridine tobutamide, chlorproamide,tolazamide, acetohexamide, troglitazone, orlistat, bupropion,nefazodone, tolazamide, chlormadinone acetate, phenaglycodol,allopurinol, aluminum aspirin, methotrexate, acetyl sulfisoxazole,hydrocortisone, hydrocorticosterone acetate, cortisone acetate,dexamethasone and its derivatives such as betamethasone, triamcinolone,methyltestosterone, 17-β-estradiol, ethinyl estradiol, ethinyl estradiol3-methyl ether, prednisolone, 17-β-hydroxyprogesterone acetate,19-nor-progesterone, norgestrel, norethindrone, norethisterone,norethiederone, progesterone, norgesterone, norethynodrel, terfenadine,fexofenadine, aspirin, acetaminophen, indomethacin, naproxen,fenoprofen, sulindac, indoprofen, nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate,propranolol, timolol, atenolol, alprenolol, cimetidine, clonidine,imipramine, levodopa, carbidopa, selegiline, chlorpromazine, methyldopa,dihydroxyphenylalanine, calcium gluconate, ketoprofen, ibuprofen,cephalexin, erythromycin, haloperidol, zomepirac, ferrous lactate,vincamine, phenoxybenzamine, diltiazem, milrinone, captropril, mandol,quanbenz, hydrochlorothiazide, ranitidine, flurbiprofen, fenbufen,fluprofen, tolmetin, alclofenac, mefenamic, flufenamic, difuninal,nimodipine, nitrendipine, nisoldipine, nicardipine, felodipine,lidoflazine, tiapamil, gallopamil, amlodipine, mioflazine, lisinopril,enalapril, captopril, ramipril, enalaprilat, famotidine, nizatidine,sucralfate, etintidine, tetratolol, minoxidil, chlordiazepoxide,diazepam, amitriptyline, and imipramine, and pharmaceutical salts ofthese active agents. Further examples are proteins and peptides whichinclude, but are not limited to, cyclosporins such as cyclosporine A,insulin, glucagon, thyroid stimulating hormone, parathyroid andpituitary hormones, calcitonin, renin, prolactin, corticotrophin,thyrotropic hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, chorionicgonadotropin, gonadotropin releasing hormone, bovine somatotropin,porcine somatropin, oxytocin, vasopressin, prolactin, somatostatin,lypressin, pancreozymin, luteinizing hormone, LHRH, interferons,interleukins, growth hormones such as human growth hormone, bovinegrowth hormone and porcine growth hormone, fertility inhibitors such asthe prostaglandins, fertility promoters, growth factors, and humanpancreas hormone releasing factor. Listings of additional examples ofknown therapeutic agents can be found, for example, in the United StatesPharmacopeia (USP), Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis ofTherapeutics, 10th Ed., McGraw Hill, 2001; Katzung, B. (ed.) Basic andClinical Pharmacology, McGraw-Hill/Appleton & Lange; 8th edition (Sep.21, 2000); Physician's Desk Reference (Thomson Publishing), and/or TheMerck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, 17th ed. (1999), or the 18th ed(2006) following its publication, Mark H. Beers and Robert Berkow(eds.), Merck Publishing Group, or, in the case of animals, The MerckVeterinary Manual, 9th ed., Kahn, C.A. (ed.), Merck Publishing Group,2005; and “Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence andEvaluations,” published by the United States Food and DrugAdministration (F.D.A.) (the “Orange Book”). Examples of drugs approvedfor human use are listed by the FDA under 21 C.F.R. §§ 330.5, 331through 361, and 440 through 460, incorporated herein by reference;drugs for veterinary use are listed by the FDA under 21 C.F.R. §§ 500through 589, incorporated herein by reference. In certain embodiments,the therapeutic agent is a small molecule. In certain embodiments, thetherapeutic agent may be one or more therapeutic agents.

As used herein, “gastric retentive endpoint” may be dependent on a “timedependent disassembly mechanism” or “timed disassembly” or “timeddownsizing” wherein the device loses its mechanical integrity as asingle unit for example, through any one or more of the following:opening the closed circuit and/or disassembly of an articulated body;and/or cleaving a connection between a mediating sleeve, tube, arm andanother arm or pivotal connection thereof for example a hinge; and/orsignificant pharmaceutical-releasing erosion of the erodible.

As used herein, “pharmaceutical-releasing” is meant to include anyformulation which is designed to undergo degradation, dissolution,disintegration etc. when exposed to gastric environment. Pharmaceuticalformulations can include one or more therapeutic agents or activepharmaceutical ingredients.

As used herein, the “gastric-fluid-erodible wrapper” is meant to includeany standard means for packaging pharmaceuticals for delivery into thestomach such as capsules. The means may erode, dissolve and/ordisintegrate within minutes of reaching the gastric environment.

As used herein, the term “arm” or “arms” includes any structure thatincludes a length, width and thickness and aids in achieving a device ofa size suitable for gastric retention. In some embodiments, the lengthof each arm may be about at least 1.5 or at least 2.0 or at least 2.5 orabout 2.5 to about 3.0 or at most 3.0 or at most 2.8 or at most 2.7 orat most 2.6. At least one arm of the gastroretentive device as describedherein retains an active pharmaceutical, diagnostic, electronic deviceetc. For example the at least one arm may define a cavity thereinconfigured to retain an erodible insert or pharmaceutical tablet (whichincludes one or more APIs, diagnostics, electronic devices, excipientsand/or polymers).

As used herein, the term “hinge assembly” includes any mechanism adaptedto permit relative pivotal movement between two or more structures,e.g., arms. The hinge assembly may include of one integral part (e.g., aliving hinge) or one or more parts that are assembled in theconventional sense. The hinge assembly may be durable in the stomach fora period of time, and it may attach to one or more arms in both thecollapsed and expanded configurations. The hinge assembly may be capableof, at a predetermined time or upon occurrence of a mechanical event,disengaging from the one or more arms.

As used herein, the term “mechanical event” includes any event thatchanges the physical properties of one or more structures over time orupon contact with another material or fluid, e.g., gastric fluid insidethe body. Absorption, dissolution, melting, degradation, erosion, etc.are all examples of mechanical events.

As used herein an “erodible” material includes any one or more unitscomposed of material that degrades, dissolves, disintegrates ordownsizes upon introduction to a specified environment or upon contactwith a specified material or fluid, e.g., a gastric environment orgastric fluid.

As used herein, the terms “compressed configuration” and “collapsedconfiguration” are used interchangeably and refer to a state prior toingestion where the gastroretentive device has a size suitable forswallowing.

As used herein, the term “expanded configuration” is a state afteringestion where the gastroretentive device is in a state that permitsretention in the stomach (gastric retention) and prevention of passagethrough the pyloric valve.

As used herein, the term “upon exposure to gastric fluid” or “undersimulated gastric conditions” unless expressed otherwise is meant to betaken literally or when needed, based on a suitable model. One exampleof such a suitable model includes a rotating bottle apparatus at 37° C.at 2-5 RPM having 400 mL 0.01N HCl, pH2 and optionally Xanthan gum 0.125gr/L.

As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” refers to amaterial that is not physically or otherwise unacceptable when used inaccordance with the disclosure. For example, the term “pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier” refers to a material that can be incorporated into acomposition and administered to a patient without causing unacceptablephysiological effects or interacting in an unacceptable manner withother components of the composition. Such pharmaceutically acceptablematerials typically have met the required standards of toxicological andmanufacturing testing, and include those materials identified assuitable inactive ingredients by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

As used herein, any term relating to geometric terms, shape and/ororientation shall, unless otherwise defined or indicated, be understoodto indicate conformance to the mathematical definition of such term tothe extent possible for the subject matter so characterized as would beunderstood by one skilled in the art and would not to require absoluteconformance to a mathematical definition of such term. Examples of suchterms relating to geometric terms, shape and/or orientation include, butare not limited to terms descriptive of: shape (such as, round, square,circular/circle, rectangular/rectangle, triangular/triangle,cylindrical/cylinder, elliptical/ellipse, (n)polygonal/(n)polygon,vertex etc.); angular orientation (such as perpendicular, orthogonal,parallel, vertical, horizontal, collinear, etc.); contour and/ortrajectory (such as, plane/planar, coplanar, hemispherical,semi-hemispherical, line/linear, hyperbolic, parabolic, flat, curved,straight, arcuate, sinusoidal, tangent/tangential, etc.); surface and/orbulk material properties, spatial/temporal resolution, distribution(such as, smooth, reflective, transparent, clear, opaque, rigid,impermeable, uniform(ly), inert, non-wettable, insoluble, steady,invariant, constant, homogeneous, etc.); as well as many others thatwould be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. As one example,a system that would be described herein as being “square” would notrequire such article to have faces or sides that are perfectly planar orlinear and that intersect at angles of exactly 90 degrees (indeed, suchan article can only exist as a mathematical abstraction), but rather,the shape of such article should be interpreted as approximating a“square,” as defined mathematically, to an extent typically achievableand achieved for the recited fabrication technique as would beunderstood by those skilled in the art or as specifically described.

In the following description the terms “house”, “contain”, “received”(for example where the erodible insert is described as being received inthe cavity) are all used synonymously and are used to mean “heldwithin”. The skilled person will appreciate that these terms are usedinterchangeably without any change in scope.

As used herein, the terms “constructed from” and “formed of” may be usedinterchangeably and are intended to mean that a component is made fromor otherwise comprises a specified material. The term “substantially” isintended to mean considerable in extent or largely but not necessarilywholly that which is specified. The terminology includes theabove-listed words, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

As used herein, the term “opening force” is intended to describe theforce of bias by the compressed state device to open into the expandedconfiguration as illustrated, for example in F1 of FIG. 20A and FIG. 20Bor at least progress by 10% towards the expanded state configuration.The opening force may be calculated by deriving the minimum forcerequired to maintain the gastric retentive device in compressed state asmeasured on a rigid surface.

As used herein, the term “rigidity” is the property of a device whichexpresses the ability to resist change in size despite application of aforce. In this case, it is the extent to which a device is capable ofresistance to a 10% decrease in any dimension of the expanded stategastric retentive device under application of a minimum force asillustrated for example in F2 in FIGS. 20C and 20D.

Description of Device

The present disclosure provides a gastroretentive delivery systemcomprising a gastroretentive device and a method of use thereof. Thegastroretentive delivery system is swallowed in a compressedconfiguration, expands in the stomach, performs its intended functionfor a predetermined time period, and at the end of the time period orupon occurrence of a mechanical event, disassembles into smallercomponents for eventual passage through the pyloric valve of thestomach.

After exiting the stomach, the disassembled components of thegastroretentive delivery system safely pass through the rest of thegastrointestinal system and are expelled from the body and/or aregradually eroded by pH conditions of the intestine. In some examples,disassembled components are configured to completely disintegrate. Inother examples, the disassembled components are configured todisintegrate to an extent necessary for evacuation from the body. In yetother examples, components of the gastroretentive delivery system do notdisintegrate and are evacuated intact.

According to the example, devices described in detail below, thegastroretentive delivery system has a modular design that combines astructural gastroretentive device and a means for controlled timing ofdisassembly or downsizing such as an erodible composition located withinthe gastroretentive device. The gastroretentive device has a size,strength and shape that facilitates gastric residence as will bediscussed in further detail below, and is configured to resistdegradation, dissolution, erosion or downsizing in the stomach until therequired time at which point it is configured to disassemble, ordownsize for safe passage out of the stomach into the intestinalenvironment. The erodible composition associated with the gastricresidence system is configured to degrade, dissolve, erode or downsizein the stomach thereby controlling the time at which the size andstrength of the gastric residence system is lost resulting indisassembly and downsizing such that passage of the component parts ofthe structural gastroretentive device from the gastric environment ispossible. It will be appreciated that because the erodible compositionis for the most part located internal to the gastroretentive device(except for a limited surface of erosion), the characteristics of thedevice are maintained until a period of time close to the disassemblyevent.

FIGS. 1-5 and 7-10 illustrate schematic examples of a gastroretentivedevice, a gastroretentive delivery system incorporating agastroretentive device or gastroretentive dosage form incorporating agastroretentive system. The device has collapsed or compressed, expandedand disassembled configurations. FIGS. 1A and 1B show the device in theexpanded configuration. The device of FIG. 1A comprises an articulatedbody that includes three arms 1001, 1002 and 1003. Arms 1001 and 1002are pivotally connected to the ends of arm 1003. In the illustratedexample arms 1001 and 1002 are pivotally connected to arm 1003 by meansof two hinge assemblies 1021, 1020. Arms 1001 and 1003 extend from, andmay pivot around hinge assembly 1020; arms 1002 and 1003 extend from,and may pivot around hinge assembly 1021. In a preferred example, arm1003 is not pivoted around hinge assemblies 1020 and 1021. Instead onlyarm 1001 is pivoted around hinge assembly 1020 and only arm 1002 ispivoted around hinge assembly 1021.

In the expanded configuration, the arms 1001, 1002, 1003 form a closedcircuit—e.g. a polygon or circle. It will be appreciated that althoughthe term polygon is used throughout, in a case that the sides or armshave a curved shape in expanded state, the final shape may resemble acircle. In the non-limiting example of FIGS. 1A-1B and 2A-2B the polygonis a triangle such that the three arms form a generally triangularshape. It will be appreciated however that polygons comprising more thanthree sides are also contemplated. The triangle may be any form oftriangle, for example an isosceles triangle or an equilateral triangle.The triangle has three vertices—1030A-1030C (the term vertex, which mayalso be referred to as apex, is a mathematical term for each angularpoint or corner of a polygon). As discussed below, in the example ofFIGS. 1-2 , vertices 1030A-1030B are ‘hinged’ while vertex 1030C is‘hinge less’ in that arms 1002 and 1001 are not pivotally connected toone another. In the illustrated example vertex 1030C is formed in situas the device transitions from a collapsed to an expanded state.

Also illustrated in the drawings is elastic leaf spring 1006 whichmechanically biases the device from a collapsed state to an expandedstate. 1006 applies a torque on 1002 around 1021.

In the exemplary device of FIGS. 1A-1C, arms 1001-1003 thereof form aclosed circuit (e.g. polygon). In the device of FIGS. 1A-1C, arms1001-1003 are effectively sides (e.g. elongated sides) of a closedpolygon when the device is in the expanded configuration. Although arms1001-1003 are straight in their elongate direction in the example ofFIGS. 1-2 , this is not a requirement and one or more of the arms mayalternatively be curved.

Arms 1001, 1002 and 1003 are all formed of a relatively rigid materialsuch that they maintain their shape in both the expanded and compressedconfigurations. Thus the body is provided with sufficient strength towithstand the forces acting on it in both fasted and fed conditions ofthe stomach. In the illustrated example, the length of arms 1001, 1002and 1003 are each individually comparable to the length of thecompressed form and the width of each arm is comparable to the width ofthe compressed form. The depth of the arms when arranged in thecompressed configuration is comparable to the depth of the compressedform. In the present disclosure, length is considered to correspond tothe x-axis illustrated in FIG. 1A, width is considered to correspond tothe z axis illustrated in FIG. 1A and depth is considered to correspondto the y axis illustrated in FIG. 1A.

In the example of FIGS. 1A-1B, hinge assemblies 1020, 1021 are attachedto each end of side 1003, thus, side 1003 may be referred to as a‘mediating’ side. The mediating side can be configured to provide atimed disassembly or alternatively can be configured to contain anactive, diagnostic and/or electronic. In some examples where themediating side provides a timed disassembly, an active, diagnosticand/or electronic may form another part of the device. In some examples,the mediating side can be configured to provide a timed disassembly andto contain an active, diagnostic and/or electronic.

As will be discussed below, arm 1003 has a cavity in which an insert canbe located.

As shown in FIG. 1B, an opening, 1007, is provided in arm 1003 to permitgastric fluid to enter the cavity when the system is in the stomach in

In the illustrated example, arm 1003 is in the form of a tube or sleeve.In the illustrated example the tube or sleeve has a circular crosssection and is thus in the form of a hollow cylinder having a cavity.However the tube may have alternative cross-sectional shapes such assquare or rectangular. In some examples the cross section of the tube isan irregular polygonal shape. As discussed above, the tube is arrangedto house an erodible insert, 1036, FIGS. 2A and 2B. In some examples theerodible insert has a complementing contour to the interior of the tube.In other examples the erodible insert fills only a portion of theinterior of the tube. The tube may in any case be considered to form ashell or sleeve that surrounds an erodible insert, diagnostic orelectronic device or combinations thereof. The tube, shell or sleeve hasmechanical durability independent of its contents throughout itsduration in the stomach.

The tube or sleeve may be constructed from material that is insoluble ingastric fluid. Alternatively the outer surface of the tube or sleevecomprises a pharmaceutically acceptable material which is insoluble ingastric fluid, for example at about 37 degrees C. As will be discussedbelow, in some embodiments, an erodible insert which may be in the formof one or more tablets (e.g. pharmaceutical-containing) may be disposedwithin arm 1003.

Arms 1001 and 1002 have a different construction than arm 1003 to allowthe device to be compressed to a compressed or collapsed configuration.Specifically, in the illustrated example, arms 1001 and 1002 have agenerally hollow semi-cylindrical shape. Put another way arms 1001 and1002 are hollow and have a generally semi-circular cross section. Theends of arms 1001 and 1002 distal to arm 1003 are in the shape of aquarter hemispheres that closes what would otherwise be an open end ofarms 1001 and 1002. Since arm 1003 has a substantially cylindrical shapeand arms 1001 and 1002 have a generally hollow semi-cylindrical shape,the arms are able to overlay one another for example to form a nestedarrangement in the compressed configuration as illustrated in FIG. 4C.

As discussed above, the shell or sleeve of arm 1003 may define anopening, void or window 1007 therein via which gastric fluid canpenetrate the system so as to erode (e.g. pharmaceutical-containingerodible) the erodible insert disposed within the shell or sleeve. Insome embodiments, this opening or window 1007 is relatively small—aswill be discussed below, this allows for a controlled and/or directionalrelease of the erodible insert within the sleeve or shell. In thenon-limiting illustrated example, a single opening or window is shown—itis appreciated that in other embodiments, a plurality of openings orwindows may be provided.

The erodible insert may comprise a pharmaceutical, diagnostic orelectronic device or combinaion thereof. For examples, where theerodible insert is a pharmaceutical-containing erodible insert, erosionthereof releases pharmaceutical into gastric fluid. Thus, in this caseerosion of the erodible insert is pharmaceutical-releasing erosion.

FIG. 2A-2B illustrate the erodible insert 1036 (e.g. a tablet) withinarm 1003. FIG. 2A is a cross section of arm 1003 and shows an annularshell 1080 or sleeve that is constructed of gastric-fluid-insoluble,pharmaceutically acceptable material and/or has an outer surface that isgastric-fluid-insoluble. Put another way, annular shell 1080 or sleeveis a protective shell or sleeve so that only gastric fluid which entersvia opening(s) 1007 (see FIG. 1B) contacts the erodible therein — thisallows for greater control of the erosion process such that for examplethe erosion is directional for example eroding from the center outwards.In some example, it may also be appreciated that the surface area andrate of erosion remains substantially consistent throughout the erosionprocess.

In the example of FIGS. 1A-1B, a proximal end of side/arm 1002 islabelled as 1025; a distal end hereof is labelled as 1026; a proximalend of side/arm 1001 is labelled as 1027; a distal end hereof islabelled as 1028.

In the example of FIGS. 1A-1B, pressure applied by leaf spring 1006applied upon arm/side 1002 provides a torque around hinge assembly 1021.The leaf spring 1006 is an elastic leaf spring and biases the deviceinto the expanded configuration, thus the leaf spring 1006 acts as abiasing member. In the illustrated example the leaf spring extendsbetween hinge assembly 1020 and arm 1002 in the expanded configuration.However the leaf spring may extend between arm 1003 and arm 1002 in theexpanded configuration. The biasing member may form a part of anothercomponent. For example, the biasing members may be a portion of thehinge assembly mediating arm. In another example, the biasing member isa separate component.

In order to bias both arms 1001 and 1002 into the expandedconfiguration, the leaf spring is arranged between arm 1003 and arm 1002when the arms overlay one another in the compressed configuration. Inthis manner the leaf spring acts on the arm 1002 which itself acts onthe uppermost arm 1001 thereby biasing both arms into the expandedconfiguration.

As will be discussed below, in some embodiments at least one vertex1030C may be hinge less. In the example of FIGS. 1A-1B (schematicallyillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B), pressure applied by leaf spring 1006 uponarm 1002 (which provides a torque around hinge assembly 1021) urges asurface of arm 1002 at distal end 1026 thereof against a portion of side1001 at distal end 1028 thereof to provide compression or a compressiveforce there between (see FIG. 3C). This compressive force causes thearms 1001 and 1002 to mechanically engage, thereby locking arms 1001 and1002 together. As illustrated in examples, sustaining of thiscompressive force is required to maintain (e.g. stably maintain) vertex1030C. As will be discussed below (e.g. in the context ofdisassembly—see FIG. 7 ), in some embodiments, ceasing of thiscompressive force (e.g. due to the ceasing of the torque around hinge1021) dismantles vertex 1030C.

FIG. 3A corresponds to FIG. 1B and is a schematic drawing of thetriangle. In FIG. 3A, a protrusion 1090 of arm 1001 is additionallyillustrated. Arm 1002 acts against the protrusion 1090 when the deviceis biased into the expanded configuration. This facilitates retention ofthe device in the expanded configuration. This will be discussed infurther detail below.

Transition of the device of FIGS. 1-3 from the compressed to theexpanded state is now discussed with reference to FIGS. 4-5 . FIG. 4Aschematically illustrates the device of FIG. 1-3 in a compressed state.

FIG. 4B illustrates the collapsed or compressed-state schematically, ina manner similar to that of FIGS. 3A-3B which illustrates the expandedstate schematically.

To better illustrate the various elements of FIG. 4B, FIG. 4Cillustrates the same compressed state of FIGS. 4A-4B in a verticallydistorted view where vertical space is ‘stretched.’

Thus, as shown in FIG. 4B, when in the compressed state, vertex 1030Cdoes not exist. As will be discussed below, vertex 1030C may be formedin situ (e.g. within the stomach) by pressure applied by leaf spring1006 upon side 1002 (i.e. this pressure provides the torque around hingeassembly 1021).

For example, due to the presence of leaf spring 1006, the device ismechanically biased towards an expanded state. Before ingestion, thispressure may be counteracted by an erodible wrapper (e.g. retainer;around the device (e.g. of FIGS. 4A). This wrapper or retainer cansustain the device in the compressed configuration of FIG. 4A-4C.However, upon ingestion and/or in the stomach, erosion of this wrapperor retainer reduces or eliminates this counteracting force, causing thedevice to transition from the compressed configuration to the expandedconfiguration as shown in FIG. 5 .

The transition from the compressed configuration to the expandedconfiguration may be driven by elastic restoring forces —in the exampleof FIGS. 1-5 the restoring forces of leaf spring 1006. The transitionmay close a circuit (e.g. a polygon) and/or form a vertex (e.g. hingeless vertex) 1030C.

FIGS. 1-5 illustrate various elements of the system that may, indifferent embodiments, be useful for forming and/or sustaining vertex1030C.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an extended-release method using anypresently-described gastric retention system.

FIG. 7 illustrates the expanded state of the device and progressiveerosion of the erodible in accordance with some embodiments. Inparticular, in some embodiments an erodible insert (e.g. tablet 1036) ispresent in mediating arm 1003—e.g. within a shell or sleeve having awindow or opening 1007 via which gastric fluid may penetrate. Inaccordance with some embodiments, the erodible insert is in directcontact with an inner surface of mediating arm 1003. The inner surfacearea of mediating arm 1003 can comprise at least 50% or at least 75% orat least 90% or at least 95% pH sensitive polymer. When an erodibleinsert is present in mediating arm 1003 the combination of the deviceand erodible insert is referred to as a gastric residence system.

At time t1 gastric fluid has yet to penetrate into an interior of arm1003 where erodible insert 1036 is disposed. As noted above, in theexample of FIGS. 1-5 , an interior of arm 1003 is mostly sealed from theexternal environment (e.g. gastric fluids). Thus gastric fluid may onlyenter into the interior of arm 1003 via one or more window(s) oropening(s) 1007. In some examples, the window or opening 1007 is in acentral portion of side/arm 1003. As such, and as illustrated in FIGS. 7and 8 , over time (e.g. at times t2, t3, t4) erosion of the erodibleinsert 1036 within arm 1003 is ‘outward’ erosion, e.g. from a centralpoint in the arm in both directions towards arms 1002 and 1001 and hingeassemblies.

In some embodiments, erodible insert 1036 comprises apharmaceutical—thus, the erosion illustrated in FIG. 7 ispharmaceutical-releasing erosion. Although erodible insert 1036 maycomprise a pharmaceutical, any constitution may be envisioned whetheruniform or in layers.

A presence of an erodible insert 1036 whether a unit (e.g. tablet) orseries of inter-fitting units may maintain an attachment between hingeassembly 1020 or portion thereof and/or hinge assembly 1021 or portionthereof and arm 1003 (i.e. shell or gastric-juice-insoluble portions ofthe arms 1001, 1002, 1003). In this example, erosion of the erodibleinsert sufficiently modifies geometric and/or mechanical properties ofinsert 1036 (e.g. which is erodible) to detach a hinge assembly 1020and/or hinge assembly 1021 from arm 1003. The modified geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible insert which result in detachmentof a hinge assembly occur within an inner cavity of arm 1003. In thismanner, the properties of the device remain substantially unaltereduntil disassembly.

As illustrated in FIG. 9 , this detaching drives opening of the closedcircuit or closed polygon and/or disassembly of the GRDF into units thatare sized for exiting the stomach via the pyloric valve.

Further details of a specific example of a gastroretentive device, agastric residence system incorporating a gastroretentive device as wellas a gastroretentive dosage form of the present disclosure are describedin detail below with respect to FIGS. 10-15 .

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a gastroretentive device in anexpanded configuration. The arrangement of this device is similar tothat illustrated in FIG. 1 .

The device illustrated in FIG. 10 includes three arms 2001, 2002 and2003 in a similar manner to that illustrated in FIG. 1 . The three arms2001, 2002 and 2003 together form a body. The body is in the form of agenerally triangular shape with arm 2003 as the base of the triangularshape and arms 2001 and 2002 as the sides of the triangular shape. Arms2001 and 2002 are pivotally connected to the ends of arm 2003 therebyforming two apexes or vertices of the triangular shape. Arms 2001 and2002 are mechanically engaged with one another to form the third apex orvertex of the triangular shape. The triangular shape may be any form oftriangle, for example an isosceles triangle or an equilateral triangle.Due to the triangular arrangement of arms 2001, 2002 and 2003, the angleα or angle β between arms 2001 and 2003, and 2002 and 2003 can each bebetween about 30 degrees and 90 degrees and in some examples is around60 degrees. For example, angle α and angle β may be about 60 degrees.

Although in the illustrated example a triangular shaped expandedconfiguration is illustrated, other shaped expanded configurations arealso envisaged for example, circular (i.e. where arms have curvature),rectangular, rhombus or other quadrilateral shape, hexagonal, octagonaletc. Any suitable polygonal or circular shape may be used.

A biasing member in the form of a leaf spring mechanically biases arm2002 thereby biasing the three arms 2001, 2002 and 2003 into theexpanded configuration. This will be discussed in further detail below.Although in the illustrated example an elongate leaf spring 2006 is usedas a biasing member, other suitable biasing arrangements may also beused. For example, a biasing member in the form of a helical spring andan elongate member may be used. Additional support for the biasingmember may also be included such as an additional biasing member in theform of an elongate leaf spring 2006 a to bias the elongate leaf spring2006 and the 2001 arm. Alternatively the 2006 r ramp which is configuredto bias the elongate leaf spring 2006 from the first arm 2003 mayprovide additional support in transition.

In the illustrated example, arm 2003 is in the form of a tube (See FIGS.19C). In this manner the interior of arm 2003 forms a cavity in which anerodible insert (See FIGS. 19D) may be located. Plugs or sealingelements 2020 and 2021 are provided at the open ends of arm, sleeve ortube 2003 thereby sealing the ends of the tube. In the illustratedexample, plugs 2020 and 2021 include hinge assemblies by which arm 2003is pivotally connected to arms 2001 and 2002 respectively. One end ofbiasing member 2006 is attached to plug 2020. In the illustrated examplethe biasing member 2006 is integrally formed with plug 2020. In otherexamples, the biasing member 2006 may be separately formed and connectedto plug 2020. In yet further examples, the biasing member 2006 may beattached to arm 2003 instead of plug 2020.

Since arm 2003 contains an erodible insert it may be considered acontaining or loaded arm. In the illustrated example only one side orarm of the system is loaded with an erodible insert.

In the illustrated example, arms 2001 and 2002 are in the form of hollowhalf cylinders (See FIGS. 19A and 19B). Put another way arms 2001 and2002 are in the form of cylinders that have been cut in half along theirlength. Arms 2001 and 2002 have a similar cross section to arm 2003 soas to correspond to arm 2003. In this manner, the three arms 2001, 2002and 2003 can overlay one another when the system is compressed as willbe discussed in further detail below. Arms 2001 and 2002 are hollow andtherefore do not contain any erodible insert. The arms 2001 and 2002provide structural support in order to provide the body with therequired shape and structure in the expanded configuration. They maytherefore be considered to be structural arms.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 10 andillustrates further details of the system. In the cross sectional viewof FIG. 11 a cavity 2010 formed within arm 2003 can be seen moreclearly. Opening 2007 is provided centrally at the base of arm 2003 inthe illustrated example to provide access to cavity 2010 from theexterior of arm 2003. However the opening 2007 may be provided at anysuitable location and can therefore be provided on an upper or sidesurface of arm 2003 and may be arranged at any point along the length orarm 2003. In the illustrated example only one opening is provided.However in other examples a plurality of openings may be provided tofacilitate ingress of gastric fluid to the device. This will bediscussed in more detail below.

Plugs 2020 and 2021 include retaining elements 20200 and 20210,respectively that extend into the interior or cavity 2010 of arm 2003.In the illustrated example each plug 2020 and 2021 includes tworetaining elements 20200 and 20210, respectively. One retaining elementextends from the top of each plug 2020 and 2021 and one retainingelement extends from the bottom of each plug 2020 and 2021 such thatwhen the plugs 2020 and 2021 are located in arm 2003, the retainingelements 20200 and 20210 act on upper and lower surfaces of the interiorof arm 2003. However the present disclosure is not limited to thisarrangement and the retaining elements can be arranged to extend intoarm 2003 at the sides or at any suitable location around the interior ofarm 2003. Additionally in the illustrated example two retaining elementsare shown, however in other examples only one or alternatively more thantwo retaining elements can be provided. Any suitable number of retainingelements can be provided. The greater the number of retaining elementsthe more securely plugs 2020 and 2021 are held inside arm 2003 forextended periods of time under gastric conditions.

Retaining elements 20210 and 20200 include protrusions 20210 a and 20200a, respectively, extending radially outward therefrom. The protrusions20210 a and 20200 a are arranged to cooperate with correspondingrecesses in the inner surface of arm 2003. Protrusions 20210 a and 20200a include a shoulder against which an inner surface of the arm 2003abuts. In this manner the retaining elements 20210 and 20200 prevent theplugs from falling out or being easily removed from arm 2003 and assistin retaining the plugs 2020 and 2021 in arm 2003.

With reference to FIG. 11 , biasing member 2006 extends from a first endat, or proximal to, plug 2020, to a distal end at arm 2002. The distalend of biasing member 2006 engages with a protrusion on an inner surfaceof arm 2002. In the illustrated example three protrusions are providedadjacent to each other to provide three different locations for thebiasing member to engage. In alternative examples arm 2002 is providedwith only a single protrusion. In other alternative examples one or morerecesses may be provided in which the biasing member can be located. Byproviding either a protrusion or recess against which the biasing membercan locate, the biasing member 2006 can assist in retaining the devicein the expanded configuration. However this may not provide the onlymeans by which the device is retained in the expanded state. As such, insome examples, the biasing member 2006 does not engage with arm 2002 butsimply abuts against it.

FIG. 11 further illustrates the engagement of arms 2001 and 2002 to formthe third apex or vertex of the triangular shape of the system. As canbe seen, an outer surface of arm 2002 engages with an inner or retainingsurface of arm 2001. The force of the biasing member outwards, causesarm 2002 to be pushed against the interior of arm 2001. The outer end ofarm 2001 encloses the outer end of arm 2002 thereby forming an apex orvertex. In this manner arms 2001 and 2002 are locked together therebyretaining the device in the expanded state. The mechanical engagement ofthe ends of arms 2001 and 2002 provides the main force for retaining thedevice in the expanded state and can therefore be seen as a locking orretention mechanism. Put another way, the free ends of arms 2001 and2003 in the compressed configuration come into contact to provide aclosed circuit in the expanded-state articulated body via a lockingmechanism.

Further details of the locking or retention mechanism are illustrated inFIGS. 12A-12C. FIG. 12A illustrates the engagement of arms 2001 and 2002when locked together. As illustrated, arm 2001 includes a tooth 2001 athat protrudes therefrom. The tooth 2001 a is tapered or in the form ofa ramp although other shapes and configurations are also contemplated.Arm 2002 has a cut away portion or indentation 2002 a formed on an outersurface thereof at the end of arm 2002 distal to arm 2003. The cut awayportion 2002 a and tooth 2001 a cooperate with one another and provide afurther means of mechanical engagement of arms 2001 and 2002 in additionto the mechanical engagement of the outer surface of arm 2002 with theinner surface of arm 2001 thereby providing additional retaining means,for example against a tangential force that may otherwise result indetachment. In some examples the tooth 2001 a is not present and an edgeor outer surface of arm 2001 cooperates with indentation 2002 a. Inother examples neither the indentation 2002 a nor tooth 2001 a areprovided and the mechanical engagement of the ends of arms 2001 and 2002provides sufficient force to retain the arms in the expanded statetriangular shape.

As shown in FIG. 12C, plane 2001 c contacts plane 2002 c when a radialforce F1 is applied externally. As shown in FIG. 12B, both planes 2001 cand 2002 c are angled such that the contact between the plane 2001 c andthe plane 2002 c keeps arm 2001 locked with arm 2002.

In providing a means by which arms 2001 and 2002 are locked together inthe expanded state, the device is provided with sufficient strength toenable it to be retained in the stomach and resist the forces applied bythe stomach under both fed and fasted conditions. The mechanicalstrength afforded by the shape, interaction and engagement of arms 2001,2002 and 2003 in the expanded configuration is sufficient to enable thepreservation of the expanded configuration under gastric conditions.This assists in the provision of gastric retention since the expandedstate of the device is sized so as to be too large to pass through thepyloric valve as will be discussed in further detail below.

FIG. 13 illustrates further features of arms 2001 and 2002. In theillustrated example, the indentation 2002 a in arm 2002 engages with arail or slider 2001 b provided on arm 2001 as the device transitionsinto the expanded configuration. Rail 2001 b is in the form of anelongate protrusion extending from arm 2001. Rail 2001 b extends alongthe length of arm 2001 and is arranged to guide arm 2002 along arm 2001into the locked configuration. This rail 2001 b can be considered aguiding member. The provision of a guiding member keeps arm 2002 in thesame plane as arm 2001 thereby facilitating the compression of thedevice into a compressed configuration or the expansion of the deviceinto the expanded configuration.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate the device in the compressed configuration.FIG. 14A is a front view of the device in the compressed configurationand FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the device in the compressedconfiguration. As illustrated, arms 2001 and 2002 have been pivotedaround to overlay arm 2003. The interior of arm 2002 has a correspondingshape to the exterior of arm 2003 and the interior of arm 2001 has acorresponding shape to the exterior of arm 2002. In the compressedposition, arm 2002 overlays arm 2003 and arm 2001 overlays arm 2002. Inthis manner in the compressed state the arms 2001, 2002 and 2003 areprovided one inside the other or nested together. This provides acompact arrangement that is easy for a patient to ingest for examplewhen contained in a capsule or container.

As discussed above the gastroretentive device of the present disclosureis designed to be swallowed in a compressed configuration, expanded inthe stomach, perform its intended function for a predetermined timeperiod, and at the end of the time period or upon occurrence of amechanical event, disassemble and/or disintegrate or preferablydisassemble for eventual passage through the pyloric valve of thestomach. Thus it is important that the device can withstand the forcesapplied by the stomach and retain its shape and configuration in theexpanded configuration so as to prevent unintentional disassembly intosmaller components that would fit through the pyloric valve beforeexpiry of the predetermined time period and/or before the device hasfinished performing its intended function. The device of the presentdisclosure is advantageously able to endure the significant forcesapplied to it under gastric conditions due to the particular size, shapeand strength of the expanded state thereby enabling the device toperform its intended function for the required period of time. Thedevice is further designed to disassemble into components small enoughto pass through the pyloric valve once it has performed its function aswill be discussed in further detail below.

In use, the device is typically provided in the expanded state due tothe inherent bias of the biasing member although it may be administeredin the compressed state. Before the device is administered to a patient,one or more active pharmaceuticals and/or diagnostics for delayedrelease are inserted into the device. The active pharmaceutical(s) ordiagnostic(s) is typically in the form of an erodible insert that erodesor dissolves upon exposure to gastric fluid and is inserted into arm2003. Thus the erodible insert is received in cavity 2010 of arm 2003.Put another way cavity 2010 houses or contains the erodible insert. Inthis manner arm 2003 protects the erodible insert from conditionsexternal to the device. Once the erodible insert is located in thedevice, the erodible insert containing device is considered to be agastric residence system.

The erodible insert degrades, erodes or changes its physicalcharacteristics in a first set of physiological conditions of thegastric environment. In an aspect, the erodible insert is the onlycomponent that degrades, erodes or changes its physical characteristicsin a first set of physiological conditions of the gastric environment.Thus erosion of the erodible insert does not cause degradation orerosion of arm 2003. Thus the mechanical strength of arm 2003 ismaintained throughout erosion of the erodible insert. In some examples,the erodible insert can be configured to provide directional erosion forexample from the center of the first arm towards the second and/or thirdarm(s). In this example, the erodible is housed or mechanically engagedwith the sleeve or tube as well as the second and/or third arm or apivotal connection or portion thereof. Thus, the erodible insert canprovide a timed disconnection of the second and/or third arm whichcommences at greater than 60% erosion, at greater than 70% erosion, atgreater than 80% erosion, at greater than 90% erosion or at greater than95% erosion.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 15A the erodible insert fills theentirety of the cavity 2010 in arm 2003. In particular the erodibleinsert is sized such that plugs 2021 and 2020 have an interference fitbetween the erodible insert and the interior surface of arm 2003. Theclose fit of these components is such that the erodible insert providesan outward or compressive force which pushes resilient protrusions 20210a and 20200 a into the recesses on the interior surface of arm 2003.This ensures that the plugs 2020 and 2021 remain located in the ends ofarm 2003. In the illustrated example the erodible insert is in the formof one or more tablets.

Once the erodible insert has been inserted into the device therebyforming a gastric residence system, the system is compressed into thecompressed state before ingestion. The system may be compressed by handor using a machine or device similar to that described in WO2017/093976.After compression the system is retained in the compressed state bylocating the system inside a capsule or container. The capsule has theadditional function of preventing gastric fluid from entering opening2007. The capsule is formed of material that is strong enough towithstand the inherent biasing force of the biasing member and thusretains the system in the compressed state. The capsule material alsoerodes or dissolves upon exposure to gastric fluid. Thus once thecapsule is ingested by a patient, the capsule erodes in the presence ofgastric fluid in the stomach. This removes the force retaining thesystem i.e. the device containing the erodible insert in the compressedconfiguration. The inherent bias of the biasing member then biases thedevice, and thus the overall system, into the expanded state where it isretained by means of the mechanical engagement of arms 2001 and 2002.Thus automatic transformation into the expanded configuration isachieved. The transformation of the system into the expandedconfiguration is independent of the erodible insert and therefore issolely dependent on the mechanical arrangement of the device. The deviceis designed such that the transformation from the compressedconfiguration to the expanded configuration occurs rapidly. In someexamples the device is configured to transform between the compressedconfiguration for ingestion and the expanded configuration for gastricretention within less than 10 minutes, less than 5 minutes, less than 4minutes, less than 3 minutes or preferably less than 2 minutes.

Once the GRDF has been ingested and travels to the stomach, the capsulehas eroded and the system i.e. the device containing the erodible insertor alternative timed disassembly mechanism has transformed into theexpanded state, the system remains in the stomach for a predeterminedperiod of time. The system or more particularly the device from whichthe system is formed is thus sized so that in the expanded state, itcannot exit the stomach through the pyloric valve. In order to preventpassage through the pyloric valve, the device in the expanded state musthave a minimum turning radius capable of resisting passage through thepyloric valve. “Turning radius” is understood to mean a criticaldimension via which the system could be rotated and/or turned to fitthrough an opening, for example the pyloric valve, ring or a tube havinga defined diameter and height. This is not necessarily the smallestdimension or diameter of the device but rather is a function of the 3Dgeometry of the device (depth, width, length of the device), thedimensions (for example radius r and height 30 mm) of the valve orsimulated model thereof, and amount of space on either size of thevalve. By providing a device of appropriate geometry, a gastricresidence system that can remain in the stomach for a desired period oftime is provided. For example, the minimum turning radius may bemeasured through rotation in any orientation in attempt to fit through asimulated model of pyloric valve (for e.g. a ring having a defineddiameter).

In one example of the gastric retentive systems disclosed, there isprovided an expanded state device having a smallest turning radiusgreater than about 20 mm or greater than about 22 mm or greater thanabout 24 mm or greater than about 25 mm or greater than about 26 mm. Inanother embodiment, gastric retention may be achieved with a devicehaving smallest turning radius less than 35 mm or less than 32 mm orless than 30 mm or less than 28 mm. In other embodiments, gastricretention may be achieved with a device in expanded state, havingsmallest turning radius between 20 and 35 mm or about 20 mm to about 32mm or between 20 and 30 mm or about 20 to about 28 mm or about 22 and 35mm or about 22 mm to about 32 mm or between 22 and 30 mm or about 22 toabout 28 mm or about 24 and 35 mm or about 24 mm to about 32 mm orbetween 24 and 30 mm or about 24 to about 28 mm or about 24 and 35 mm orabout 24 mm to about 32 mm or between 24 and 30 mm or about 24 to about28 mm or about 26 and 35 mm or about 26 mm to about 32 mm or between 26and 30 mm or about 26 to about 28 mm or about 28 and 35 mm or about 28mm to about 32 mm or between 28 and 30 mm. Combinations of theabove-referenced ranges are also possible. The turning radius may bemeasured prior to exposure to gastric environment.

Another way of considering an appropriate size of the device is toconsider the ratio between: (i) a minimum enclosing ring of the GRDF inthe expanded state and (ii) a minimum enclosing ring of the GRDF in thecompressed state. In examples of the device disclosed, the ratio is atleast 1.5 or at least 2 or at least 2.5 and/or at most 10 or at most 7.5or at most 5 or at most 4 or at most 3.5 or at most 3.0. Combinations ofthe above-referenced ranges are also possible.

Another way of considering an appropriate size of the devices disclosedherein is to consider a ratio between (i) the post-cleavage length ofthe mediating sleeve or tube and a (ii) a pre-cleavage andexpanded-state diameter of a minimum-enclosing sphere of the device, isat least 0.05 or at least 0.1 or at least 0.2 or at least 0.3 or atleast 0.5. Combinations of the above-referenced ranges are alsopossible.

Another way of considering an appropriate size of the device is toconsider the convex hull volume. This term is known to those skilled inthe art to refer to a set of surfaces defined by the periphery of athree-dimensional object such that the surfaces define a volume. In thepresent disclosure, appropriate size refers to a gastroretentive devicelarge enough in the expanded configuration to prevent passage throughthe pyloric valve yet small enough in the compressed configuration toenable it to be swallowed. In order to meet these requirements it hasbeen established that a convex hull volume of the compressedconfiguration is about 20 to about 40% or about 25 to about 35% or about30% to about 40% of the convex hull volume of the expandedconfiguration. In order to meet these requirements it has beenestablished that a convex hull volume of the expanded configuration isabout 200 to about 400% or about 250 to about 350% or about 300% toabout 400% of the convex hull volume of the compressed configuration. Byproviding a device with a smallest turning radius of about 20 to about35 mm or about 22 mm to about 28 in an expanded configuration and/or aconvex hull volume in a compressed configuration of about 30% of theexpanded configuration convex hull volume, it is ensured that the devicecan be safely swallowed in its compressed configuration yet resistant topassage through the pyloric valve in the expanded configuration.

After a predetermined time in the stomach during which thepharmaceutical or diagnostic is released, the system disassembles into anumber of smaller parts which are small enough to fit through thepyloric valve and pass out into the intestine and thence out of thebody. The mechanism by which the device disassembles will now bediscussed with reference to FIGS. 15A-15D.

FIG. 15A illustrates the system (i.e. the device containing the erodibleinsert) in the expanded state once the capsule retaining it in thecompressed state has been eroded or dissolved. The dissolution of thecapsule removes a cover over opening 2007 and thus allows gastric fluidto enter arm 2003 via opening 2007. The gastric fluid graduallydissolves or erodes the erodible insert 2036 thereby releasing thepharmaceutical or diagnostic. Once the erodible insert has eroded, thecomponents of the device are each individually sized to exit thestomach.

FIG. 15B illustrates the system when the erodible insert 2036 ispartially eroded. As can be seen in FIG. 15B since opening 2007 iscentrally located in arm 2003, the erosion of the erodible insert 2036is directional erosion from the center of the erodible insert 2036outwards to the ends of the erodible insert 2036.

Referring to FIG. 15C, once the erodible insert 2036 has eroded ordissolved substantially, the outward force on the retaining elements20210 and 20200 decreases. After a certain amount of erosion of theerodible insert 2036, the resilience of the retaining elements 20210 and20200 which are biased inwards overcomes the compressive force of theerodible insert 2036 such that the resilient retaining elements 20200and 20210 may retract out of the recesses in the arm 2003 by applicationof an external force. The protrusions are dimensioned such that oncethey are removed from the recesses in the arm 2003; the plugs 2020, 2021are no longer retained in the arm 2003. Plugs 2020 and 2021 therebydisassemble from arm 2003.

Typically, the erodible insert is substantially eroded when at leastabout 60% of the erodible insert is eroded, or about at least about 70%,or about at least about 80% or about at least about 90% eroded beforethe compressive force of the erodible insert is reduced sufficiently toenable the retaining elements to retract out of the recesses in arm2003. In other examples at least about 70%, at least about 80% or atleast about 90% of the erodible insert must be eroded to enabledisassembly of the system. The degree of erosion may correspond to theamount of pharmaceutical or diagnostic released.

Upon disassembly of plugs 2020 and 2021 from arm 2003, arms 2001 and2002 also disassemble from another. FIG. 15D illustrates the componentsof the device after disassembly of the device. Each of the individualdisassembled components may be small enough to pass through the pyloricvalve into the intestines and thence out of the body. In alternativeexamples, the components may be further downsized for example by furtherdisassembly or erosion so as to provide individual components smallenough to pass through the pyloric valve.

FIGS. 16A-16C illustrates an alternative configuration the deviceillustrated in FIGS. 10 and 14 in which the biasing member is an angledelongate member. This configuration is similar to the configurationillustrated in FIGS. 10-14 and therefore only the points of differencewill be described.

In the compressed configuration a first portion 2006 a of the biasingmember extends over arm 2003 in a similar manner to the embodimentdescribed with respect to FIGS. 1-15 above. A second portion 2006 b ofthe biasing member is angled with respect to the first portion 2006 a ofthe biasing member and extends into plug 2020.

When the device is compressed into the compressed state, the majority ofthe device is located in a main body 2030b of a capsule therebyretaining the device in the compressed configuration. As a closingportion 2030 a of the capsule is inserted over the plug 2020 into whichthe second portion 2006 b of the biasing member extends to close thecapsule, a priming member 2031 extending from an interior of the closingportion 2030 pushes the second portion 2006 b of the biasing member to aposition perpendicular to the first portion 2006 a of the biasing memberas shown in FIG. 16B. The second portion 2006 b of the biasing member isretained in position by a tooth 2040.

Upon erosion of the capsule in gastric conditions, the first portion ofthe biasing member 2006 a acts on arm 2002 in a similar manner to theexample described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11 to force the systeminto the expanded configuration. FIG. 16C illustrates this alternativearrangement in the expanded configuration. Thus an alternativearrangement of the biasing member has been described which facilitatescompression of the device and insertion into a capsule for ingestion.

FIG. 17 illustrates a front view of alternative example of agastroretentive device according to the present disclosure in anexpanded configuration. This example is substantially similar to theexamples described with respect to FIGS. 1-16 above and therefore onlythe points of difference will be described. In this example instead oftwo structural arms, four structural arms are provided. Arms 3001 and3002 are provided on one side of containing arm 3003 and arms 3001 a and3002 a are provided on the other side of containing arm 3003. A secondbiasing member 3006 a is provided to bias arms 3001 a and 3002 a into anexpanded configuration.

Arms 3001 and 3001 a operate in the same manner and have the samefeatures as arm 2001 in the example described with reference to FIGS.10-16 above. Arms 3002 and 3002 a operate in the same manner and havethe same features as arm 2002 in the example described with reference toFIGS. 10-16 above. Thus arms 3001 and 3002 mechanically engage therebylocking arms 3001, 3002 and 3003 into a first triangular configuration.Similarly arms 3001 a and 3002 a mechanically engage thereby lockingarms 3001 a, 3002 a and 3003 into a second triangular configuration.Thus the expanded configuration of this example includes twosubstantially triangular configurations, one either side of arm 3003.

Biasing members 3006 and 3006 a operate in the same manner and have thesame features as biasing member 2006 in the example described withreference to FIGS. 10-16 above. Biasing member 3006 biases arms 3001 and3002 into the expanded configuration, while biasing member 3006 a biasesarms 3001 a and 3002 a into the expanded configuration. Thus in theexpanded configuration the body has an overall quadrilateral shape thatincludes two generally triangular shaped sections A and B asillustrated.

When the device is compressed to a compressed configuration, arm 3001overlays arm 3002 which itself overlays arm 3003 in a similar manner toarms 2001, 2002 and 2003 of the example described with respect to FIGS.10-16 above. Similarly arm 3002 a overlays arm 3001 a which itselfoverlays arm 3003. Thus a compact compressed arrangement may be providedwhich facilitates oral administration.

This example thus provides an alternative arrangement of agastroretentive device having the ability to transform between a compactcompressed configuration and a strong expanded configuration that hasthe ability to withstand the harsh environment and gastric forces of thestomach.

In the example illustrated with respect to FIG. 17 , each of arms 3001,3002, 3001 a and 3002 a is straight. However as discussed above withrespect to the examples illustrated in FIGS. 1-16 , the presentdisclosure is not limited to this. Arms 3001, 3002, 3001 a and 3002 acould alternatively be curved. In another alternative example, arms3001, 3002, 3001 a and 3002 a may be less rigid than those illustratedsuch that arms 3001, 3002, 3001 a and 3002 a may straight in thecompressed configuration but slightly curved in the expandedconfiguration. In such an example the overall shape in the expandedconfiguration may be elliptical or substantially circular. It will beappreciated that a certain amount of rigidity must be maintained inorder to provide a device of sufficient strength to be maintained ingastric conditions. However a device in which the mechanical engagementof arms 3001 and 3002; and 3001 a and 3002 a applies sufficient force tothe arms to result in curvature of the arms is envisaged. Thus in theexpanded configuration the device may have any overall shape provided ithas the size and strength to withstand gastric conditions for a requiredperiod of time.

Thus examples of a gastric residence system that includes agastroretentive device that can be retained in the stomach anddisassemble after a predetermined time have been described with respectto FIGS. 1-17 . In the above described examples, the length of timetaken for the erodible insert to erode or dissolve acts as a timer forthe disassembly of the system. In this manner the length of time thesystem can be retained in the stomach can be controlled by control ofthe erodible insert. For example, the erodible insert may be extremelyresistant to erosion or dissolution so as to allow the system to beretained in the stomach for a long period of time. Alternatively theerodible insert may be less resistant to erosion or dissolution and thusthe system may only be retained in the stomach for a short period oftime. In some examples the erodible insert is a solid tablet. In suchexamples the erodible insert may be in the form of a plurality oftablets. In some examples each tablet may have the same rate oferosion/dissolution. In other examples the tablets nearest the openingmay have a lower rate of erosion/dissolution and the tablets adjacentthe retaining elements may have a higher rate of erosion/dissolution.

Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, 15 the location of opening 2007 is a factorin determining the rate of erosion. For example, locating opening 2007in the center of arm 2003 provides the maximum amount of erodible insert2036 between the opening and retaining elements. Thus maximum erosionmust be carried out before the retaining elements retract enablingdisassembly of the device, thereby providing a maximum time delay beforedisassembly. Alternatively a plurality of openings may be provided atvarious locations on arm 2003 to increase the amount of gastric fluidentering the device and thereby increase the rate of erosion. Thus thelength of time which the system is retained in the stomach may becontrolled by the arrangements and size of openings in arm 2003 as wellas the shape and rate of erosion under gastric conditions of theerodible insert 2036. These features are associated with the examplesprovided in FIGS. 1-9 and 17 , as well.

In the illustrated examples, the erodible insert acts as a timer todelay the disassembly of the system until a predetermined time. Howeverthe invention is not limited to this example. Other means for delayingthe disassembly of the system are also contemplated. For example amechanical timer may be utilized and on expiry of a predetermined timeperiod, retaining elements may be mechanically moved away from theircorresponding recesses for example by an actuator in order to facilitatedisassembly. In another example, heat sensitive or other externallytriggered polymers may be employed and coupled with application of anexternal signal to the patient. It will be appreciated that othermechanisms which provide a timed disassembly are also contemplated. Thusthe erodible insert can provide a disassembly function and/or dosageform providing function.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-17 , it should be understood that anymethod or mechanism that is configured to maintain the collapsedconfiguration of the gastric-retentive system prior to swallowing isenvisioned. The examples described above include a capsule that erodesor dissolves upon contact with gastric fluid. In another envisionedexample, in a case where the natural state of the gastroretentive systemis the expanded state, there may be a material holding thegastroretentive system closed which dissolves or erodes in the presenceof gastric fluid thereby releasing the gastroretentive system to anexpanded configuration. In another example, the material may be in theshape of an erodible band which encompasses the arms to maintain thegastroretentive system in a collapsed configuration until the banderodes allowing expansion of the gastroretentive system. Still anotherenvisioned example includes a glue-like material that keeps the two armstogether until the glue-like material erodes allowing expansion of thegastroretentive system.

In the illustrated examples above, the capsule provides both a retentionfunction for retaining the system in a compressed configuration and abarrier function by providing a cover over the opening to the cavitythereby preventing gastric fluid entering the cavity. In alternativeexamples however the barrier function and retention functions may beprovided by separate components. For example the opening to the cavitycould be sealed by a cover and the compressed configuration could bemaintained by an erodible band. Alternatively an erodible cover could beprovided over the opening to the cavity and a capsule provided to retainthe system in the compressed configuration. In these examples theerosion rate of the cover may be different to the erosion rate of thecapsule or band. In such examples the system may transform into theexpanded configuration and gastric fluid would enter the cavity after afurther time delay. In an alternative example, a further delay may beprovided by a portion of the erodible insert or, where the erodibleinsert is formed from a number of erodible units, some of the erodibleunits may be positioned to erode first such that there is a delay indelivery of the API or diagnostic. Thus the provision of an additionalcover for preventing gastric fluid entering the cavity can provide anadditional delay in the delivery of the API or diagnostic and thedisassembly of the system.

It should be understood that any method or mechanism that is configuredto transition or open the gastroretentive device to the expandedconfiguration is encompassed by the present disclosure. In the examplesdescribed above a leaf spring springs outwards and extends from theinner area of one or both of the arms once the expanding configurationis initiated or once the mechanical integrity of the collapsed conditionhas been compromised, e.g., capsule 20 is dissolved. Alternatively arigid member in combination with a helical spring could be used insteadof the leaf spring. In an alternative envisioned example, a superporoushydrogel system may be incorporated into the inner part of the arm 2002which expands upon exposure to the gastric environment thereby forcingarm 2002 upward against arm 2001 into the expanded configuration. In afurther alternative example, the pivotal connection between arms 2003and 2002 may be formed of an elastic material such that the pivotalconnection itself biases the device into the expanded configuration.

As described in the examples, the mechanical engagement of arms 2001 and2002 (or equally 1001 and 1002 or 3001 and 3002) by arm 2003 (orsimilarly 1003, 3003) locks the arms together into a triangular-shapedstructure with the strength to withstand the forces that will act on itin the stomach and a size to prevent it passing through the pyloricvalve and out of the stomach. In alternative embodiments, additionallocking means may be employed to assist in locking the arms in anexpanded configuration. For example, as described above, an inner facingsurface of arm 2002 may include a locking mechanism to lock the leafspring in place in the expanded configuration. Alternatively the hingeassemblies of the sealing elements or plugs may include one or moremechanical interfaces or mechanisms, gear, spring, cam, etc. that areconfigured to maintain or lock the gastroretentive device in theexpanded configuration until disassembly. In some examples the leafspring may simply be configured to bias the gastroretentive device fromthe collapsed configuration and not necessarily to maintain thegastroretentive device in the expanded configuration but may beconfigured to simply prevent the gastroretentive device fromtransitioning back to the collapsed configuration.

In the general area of unfolding gastric retentive systems, the force ofopening or measure of mechanical bias towards an expanded state can beassociated with a degree of safety risk in cases where unfolding orexpansion occurs in an undesired location. Undesired locations includefor example, the esophagus midway to stomach; in a crevice in thestomach wall or gastric rugae; or in intestine in cases where thecapsule passes the pyloric valve prior to dissolving. Thus, it is ofparticular interest that in relation to the devices disclosed herein, inone embodiment, the force of opening from the compressed configurationis significantly less than the force to compressing the device from theexpanded configuration. Put another way, the force of the biasing memberacting to transition the device from the compressed configuration intothe expanded configuration is significantly less than the force requiredto compress the device by about 10% in any dimension from the expandedconfiguration towards the compressed configuration. For example, theratio of the opening force, applied by the biasing member, to thecompression force, required to compress the device by about 10%, is lessthan about 0.2 or less than about 0.1 or less than about 0.05 or lessthan about 0.03 or less than about 0.02. In examples, the ratio is about0.005 to about 0.2 or 0.005 to about 0.1 or about 0.005 to about 0.05 orabout 0.005 to about 0.03 or about 0.005 to about 0.02. Combinations ofthe above-referenced ranges are also possible. In relation to thedevices disclosed herein, the force to open from the compressedconfiguration towards the expanded configuration may be less than about100 gF, or less than about 50 gF or between about 20 to about 30 gF.

In the examples discussed herein, a cylindrically shaped containment ormediating arm 1003, 2003 or 3003 is described however the containmentarm may have any suitable shape that includes a cavity in which anerodible insert can be located. In a similar manner whilst particularshapes of structural arms 1001, 2001, 1002 and 2002 have been described,any suitable shape may be used provided the three arms can form acompressed configuration which is small enough to be swallowed. Forexample the structural arms may have a solid shape provided the depth ofthe arms is small enough to enable the device to compress to a suitablesize and shape for swallowing. In alternative examples, the structuralarms may have a hollow shape in the form of an open (i.e. not enclosed)shell in a similar manner to the specific examples described above. Thestructural and containment arms are not limited to any particular crosssectional shape however in examples where the structural arms are in theform of a shell, the arms are shaped so that an inner surface ofstructural arms 1001/2001 has a corresponding shape to an outer surfaceof structural arm 1002/2002; and an inner surface of structural arm1002/2002 has a corresponding shape to an outer surface of containmentarm 1003/2003. By forming structural arms 1001/2001 and 1002/2002 tohave internal surfaces with corresponding shapes to structural arm1002/2002 and containment arm 1003/2003 respectively, a compact deviceis provided that facilitates oral administration of the device.

As noted above, after a pre-determined period of time, thegastroretentive devices described herein will eventually lose theirmechanical integrity as a single unit, disassemble and pass from thestomach for subsequent evacuation. There are many possible mechanisms toachieve this result, all of which are encompassed by the presentdisclosure. In the illustrated examples above an erodible insert islocated in arm 2003 which disintegrates or erodes once exposed togastric fluid thereby causing mechanical disengagement of the plugs 2020and 2021 from arm 2003 and resulting in a dismantling of at least afirst vertex. However the present disclosure is not limited to thisexample and further non-limiting examples include:

connection mechanisms between arms 2001, 2002 and 2003 composed of oneor more time sensitive polymers which begin to disintegrate at a certainpoint in time.

connection mechanisms connected to arms 2001, 2002 and 2003 in a certainmechanical fashion, with a certain mechanical shape or by one or moremechanical features such that once the arms or insert erode via theintroduction of gastric fluids, the mechanical integrity of the expandedstate device (or parts thereof) is compromised due to a change of shapeof one or more mechanical elements and, as a result, the mechanicalengagement is lost

combinations of a) and b).

The gastroretentive devices described herein include an arm having acavity defined therein. The volume of the cavity may range from about100 mm³ to about 800 mm³, about 300 mm³ to about 600 mm³ or about 350mm³ to about 550 mm³. In embodiments, the volume of the cavity is about0.8 ml to about 0.1 ml, or about 0.6 to about 0.3 ml.

In any of the gastroretentive systems described herein, the erodibleinsert can include excipients typically used for immediate release orcontrolled release. It should be understood that the functional effectof the controlled release or erosion of the insert tablet is obtained bythe choice of excipients and surface area exposure to the gastricenvironment.

In some examples, one or more APIs or diagnostics for immediate orcontrolled release are associated with the gastroretentive system in avariety of ways, depending on the physical and chemical properties ofthe API or diagnostic and the desired release profile. In one example,the API/diagnostic is at least partially coated on the external wall ofthe cavity. In another example, the API or diagnostic may be at leastpartially enclosed within an external polymeric layer which forms theperimeter of the arm 2003 and which at least partially defines theinterior cavity configured to hold an API/diagnostic and excipients. TheAPI/diagnostic and excipients may be contained within the polymericlayer forming the cavity. The excipients may be any pharmaceuticalexcipients including, but not limited to, an erodible or non-erodiblepolymer matrix or may make up a constant-flow pump, which is for examplemechanically or osmotically driven. As described above, the cavity mayalso have openings which contribute to a controlled release effect. Inanother example, the controlled release effect may be achieved byanother method known in the art other than a polymeric layer forming ashell. In embodiments, the API may not be contained within an insert butrather may for example, be formulated to simply form part of the armitself. Similar to the various embodiments described herein, the insertcan be disengaged from the arms in any a number of different ways.

The materials are selected and processed in a way that will enable eachof the components of the system to operate according to its definedfunctionality (e.g., rigidity for the arms and hinge, elasticity ofspring, and stability in dissolution, as defined above) or desiredmanufacturing method (e.g. hot melt extrusion, injection molding).Different materials may be used in order to better balance betweendurability and safety or eventual disintegration; pH independence anddependence, etc. For example, the ratio of cellulose acetate (CA) totriacetin may contribute to the durability, elasticity, reducedbrittleness, independence from pH changes and decreased erodibility. Inanother example, injection molded pH dependent polymer such as HPMCacetate succinate is at least partially coated with a pH dependentpolymer (e.g., polymethacrylates such as HPMC acetate succinate,Eudragit S®). In another example, molded parts are a combination of pHindependent and pH dependent polymer. Other materials may be selectedfrom PCT/US2015/033850 or PCT/US2016/064439.

In some embodiment, the individual components excluding the wrapper anderodible such as the arms, hinge, tube or sleeve do not undergo anysignificant swelling in the presence of biological fluids such as blood,water, bile, gastric fluids, combinations of these, or the like. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the individual components swells byless than about 10 vol %, less than about 5 vol %, less than about 2 vol%, or less than about 1 vol % in a non-stirred, gastric fluid orsimulated gastric fluid at physiological temperature as compared to thevolume of the component in the dry state (e.g., RT). For example, themolded hinge assembly or arm component may comprise enteric polymers(i.e. for example included during injection molding) and/or a coat ofenteric polymers (i.e. added post molding). In another embodiment,digestive track insoluble materials, for example cellulose acetate maybe used.

The gastroretentive devices of the present disclosure may bemanufactured by a number of processes including injection molding, 3Dprinting and the like, as will be clear to one skilled in the art, suchas the manufacturing techniques described in WO 2003057197 or in Zemaet. al., Journal of Controlled Release, Volume 159 (2012) 324-331. Forexample, a mold can be constructed in the desired shape of thecomponents of the gastroretentive device and filled with appropriatematerial(s) in liquid state and then allowed to cure by chemicalprocesses or cooled if thermosetting material(s) are used.

The ability to be minimally affected by a repetitive force contributesto the ability of a GR system to maintain a size relevant for gastricretention. In examples of the present disclosure, the gastroretentivedevices described in detail above, may include a mechanical durabilityto remain intact, i.e., assembled with minimum deformation/downsizingwhen exposed to gastric conditions or when a repetitive compressiveforce is applied, over a period of time of at least about 2 hours, orabout 3 hours, or about 6 hours, or about 9 hours, or about 12 hours orabout 24 hours, or about 168 hours, or about one month, and undergastric conditions or when a repetitive force of at least 500 grF or atleast 800 gF or at least 1000 gF or at least 2000 gF is applied. In theexamples described above, the gastric retentive system is capable ofsubstantially maintaining its size under application of at least about500 gF, or at least about 600 gF, or at least about 700 gF or at leastabout 800 gF or at least about 1000 gF or about 2000 gF applied everytwo hours. In the examples disclosed herein, the gastroretentive devicemay include a mechanical durability to maintain a size relevant forgastric retention over a period of time of at least about 2, or at leastabout 3, or at least about 6, or at least about 9, or at least about 12or about 24 hours and under the application of a repetitive forceranging from about 400 gF to about 3000 grF, in embodiments from about400 gF to about 1000 gF. In the examples described above, the expandedstate gastroretentive device is capable of resisting about 200 to about600 gF over the full gastric retentive period.

In another example, the gastric retentive devices or systems describedin detail provide a mechanical durability to maintain a size relevantfor gastric retention, i.e., assembled with minimaldeformation/downsizing under the application of a repetitive force inany direction or position of at least about 500 gF or at least about 800gF or at least about 1000 gF or at least about 2000 gF over a period oftime of at least 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48, 72 hours or up to a week, amonth or up to a couple of months. In this context, minimaldeformation/downsizing is considered about 20% or preferably about 10%change in largest dimension.

In the illustrated examples, the gastroretentive delivery systemprovides a gastric retentive endpoint and/or opening of the closedcircuit and/or disassembly of the device and/or cleaving the connectionbetween the erodible-insert containing arm and at least one of otherarms. Changes in geometric and/or mechanical properties of the erodibleopens the closed circuit and/or disassembles the body, rendering thebody suitable for exiting the stomach via the gastric valve thereof.These each may be caused by release of active pharmaceutical ingredientof greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than60%, greater than 70%, greater than 80%, greater than 90% or greaterthan 95%.

In the examples described above, the expanded state gastroretentivedelivery system is capable of maintaining dimensional strength andstrength under repeated forces over a period of time in the gastricenvironment and/or until about more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%erosion of the erodible insert and/or until about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%,50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% release of active ingredient. In someembodiments, the erosion of the erodible insert is at a rate similar tozero order preferably over 12 hours. Put another way the rate of erosionof the erodible insert is substantially constant.

In the examples described above, the expanded state gastroretentivedelivery system is capable of being retained internal to a subject forextended periods of time beyond standard oral extended release dosageforms. In some embodiments, gastroretentive delivery system is capableof gastric retention under light meal conditions for at least 5 hours in50% of subjects. In the examples described above, the expanded stategastroretentive delivery system is capable of gastric retention underlight meal conditions for 5 hours in more than 50% of subjects. Assumingone can neutralize the effect of retention caused by the light meal, thegastroretentive delivery system is capable of retention through at leastone or preferably two cycles of gastric housekeeping forces.

In the examples described above, the expanded state gastroretentivedelivery system is capable of retention in a beagle dog stomach of atleast 4.5 hours in about 50% of dogs under fasted conditions. In theexamples described above, the expanded state gastroretentive deliverysystem is capable of retention in a beagle dog stomach of about 4 hoursin at least about 50% of dogs.

In the examples described above, the expanded state gastroretentivedelivery system is capable of gastric retention in a pig for about 1-2days.

Optionally, in an additional example, any of the gastroretentive devicesor gastric residence systems containing a gastroretentive devicedescribed or envisioned herein may include an emergency release featurethat allows the gastroretentive device or system to pass through thepyloric valve for immediate removal from the stomach andgastrointestinal tract, if needed. An antidote or other triggeringmechanism may be employed to initiate the emergency release of thegastroretentive device or gastric residence system. In one envisionedexample, a gastroretentive device of the present disclosure includesplugs (or any other portion thereof) that are pH sensitive (for examplesensitive to a pH 5-5.5) such that under normal gastric conditions thesystem (or any portion thereof) remains intact and the gastroretentivedevice functions as intended as part of a gastric residence system.However, if needed, the environmental pH can be slightly increased (towithin the above pH sensitive range or any other specified range)causing the mechanical integrity of the plug (or any portion thereof) toerode causing the plug to disassemble from one or both arms and passthrough the pyloric valve for subsequent evacuation.

EXPERIMENTAL EXAMPLES Example 1 Manufacture of a Gastric RetentiveSystem

Manufacture of a system as disclosed herein is described below,according to an aspect of this disclosure. The manufacture of device isdescribed in FIGS. 1A-1C, erodible insert tablet in FIG. 1D, labeling inFIG. 1E for the purposes of the preclinical and human studies describedand assembly in FIG. 1F

Example 1A Manufacture of Extruded Beads

The extruded beads were prepared using hot melt extrusion technology.

“Formulation N”: cellulose acetate (400 g) and triacetine (100 grams)

“Formulation B”: HPMC AS HG (1600 grams), HPMC AS MG (400 grams), PEG3350 (44 grams) and dibutyl sebacate (176 grams)

Each of Formulation N and Formulation B were blended in a high shearmixer (DIOSNA P-25). The granules are then fed in twin-screw extruder(screw diameter 16 mm) at the rate of 1 kg/hr, screw speed of 150 RPM,melt temperature of 190° C. for Formulation N and 140° C. forFormulation B. The extrudate was cooled using air cooled conveyors andchopped into beads using a Varicut Pelletiser.

Example 1B Mold Manufacture

Molds of each of the gastroretentive device parts were designed for usein injection molding technology. Extruded beads were fed into a WittmanEcoPower 55 Ton Injection Molding Machine using injection parameterslisted in Table 1. The obtained parts are illustrated in FIGS. 10through 15 and FIGS. 19A-19C.

TABLE 1 Injection molding parameters Part Injected [shown in Barrel MoldInjection Hold Cycle FIGS. 10 -15 and Temperature Temperature pressurepressure time FIG. 19A-19C] [° C.] [° C.] [Bar] [Bar] [sec] Hinge 170 65160 550 1 assembly 2021 −215 0 6-13 (Formulation N) Hinge 170 65 160 5501 assembly 2020 −220 0 6-13 (Formulation N) Ramp 170 65 160 700 1 2006r−220 0 6-13 (Formulation N) Arms 2001, 150 55-40 140 750 2 2002 −190 0−700 3-18 (Formulation B) Arm 150 60-40 200 780 2 sleeve, tube 2003 −1900 −700 3-18 (Formulation B)

Example 1C Mold Coating

The arms 2001, 2002 and 2003 were coated using an O'Hara LabCoat 15″machine. The dispersion formulation is presented in Table 2. The partswere coated using the following parameters: inlet temperature of 30° C.,exhaust temperature of 25° C., atomizing air pressure of 1.5 bars, sprayrate of 7-10 g/min and pan speed of 14-18 RPM. A coating weight gain of5.0% was applied to the parts. Curing step was done for half an hour atinlet temperature of 40° C.

TABLE 2 Enteric coating formulation. Component Quantity [g] DibutylSebacate 27 Ferric oxid red 8 Talc extra fine 52 Eudragit ® S-100 312(Methacrylic Acid copolymer, Type B) Isopropyl Alcohol 3480 Acetone 870

Example 1D Erodible Insert Tablet Manufacturing

Erodible 2036 is made up of two types of tablets for a total of fourunit: two side tablets (2036S, FIG. 19D) for inclusion at either end ofthe sleeve or tube 2003 and two central tablets (2036L, FIG. 19D) placedin the center between the side tablets. Each punch was designed to fillthe cavity of the device. The tablets were produced using wetgranulation.

The formulation of the central tablets and side tablets are presented inTable 3. The intra-granular excipients were mixed in high shear mixer(Diosna P-10). The granulation solution (purified water) was added tothe high shear mixer during mixing. The obtained granulate was thendried using a fluid bed drier (FBD), milled using milling machine(Quadro 0.032″) and blended together with the extra-granular excipientsusing blender (Y-cone 5L). The final blend was compressed into tabletsusing Fette 102 (each central tab weighed 220 mg and each side tabletweighed 160 mg).

TABLE 3 Tablet formulation Quantity [g] Side tablet Central tabletComponent (2036S) (2036L) Intra-granular materials Povidone (PVP K-90)156.8 276.0 Mannitol USP 9.5 412.8 (PEARLITOL ® 200SD) Barium SulfateUSP 1237.5 1237.2 Ethocel ™ Premium 7 CPS 668.3 408.0 Granulationsolution (purified 210 210 water)* Extra-granular materials Mannitol USP255.1 277.2 (PEARLITOL ® 200SD) Magnesium Stearate 25.8 28.8 *evaporatedduring drying

Example 1E Mold Labelling

The 2001, 2003, 2020, 2021 were manually labelled with Barium sulphatefor detection in X-ray. Barium sulphate were manually placed on the2001, 2020, 2021 and 2003 (about 20-25 mg for each part) and then sealedusing a cellulose acetate solution 6.5% WN in acetone.

All labeled parts were then dried at room temperature.

Example 1F Assembly of GRS, FIG. 10

The ramp 2006 r was added to the 2003 sleeve using the cellulose acetatesolution described in Example 1G. Arms 2001 and 2002 were lubricatedusing Magnesium stearate powder. The insert erodible tablets 2036 wereplaced in the 2003 sleeve in the following order: one 2036S on each endand two 2036L in the centre. Hinges 2020 and 2021 were then manuallyconnected to respective arms 2001 and 2002. The final gastric retentivesystem was stored in HDPE bottles with silica until dosing. Before invivo dosing or in vitro testing, assembled GRDF were folded and placedin a capsule 000, elongated to 29 mm.

Example 2 In Vitro Characteristics, FIG. 20

For the purposes of this example, in order to disassociate the effectsof the erodible, the hinges 2020 and 2021 were glued to opposing ends ofthe 2003 arm [FIG. 10 ].

For the purposes of this example, the opening force is the minimum forceapplied by the device to open from the compressed configuration, asillustrated as F1 in FIGS. 20A and 20B. In order to measure the minimumopening force, F1, the minimum weight applied at W on the compressedstructure (which was placed on a rigid surface), which resulted inslight opening was measured for both a comparative example and the testarticle described above, see FIGS. 20A, 20B Results are presented inTable 4.

For the purposes of this example, the rigidity of a device is a measureof a device's ability to resist change despite application of a force ofcompression, F2 in FIGS. 20C and 20D. F2 is calculated by measuring theminimum force which is applied for 30 seconds and which is required tocause a 10% decrease in the height of the expanded state gastricretentive at room temperature. Four systems were tested and results arepresented in Table 4.

Comparative device B: GRS in FIG. 20A and FIG. 20C* (addition details ofdevice design in PCT/US2015/033850, example 6—FIGS. 18, 34B), usingmaterial from Formulation B

Comparative device N: GRS in FIG. 20A and FIG. 20C* (addition details ofdevice design in PCT/US2015/033850, example 6—FIS. 18, 34B), usingmaterial from, using material from Formulation N

GRS B: GRS of Example 1—Formulation B

GRS N: GRS of Example 1—Formulation N

TABLE 4 Results: Gastroretentive System tested Compar- Compar- ativeative Force device B device N RS B RS N Opening force F1 (grF) 180 285 00 as measured by sensor Rigidity as measured by 700 850 500 000 minimumForce F2 required to cause >10% in height against (grF) as measured bysensor Ratio of F1/F2: 0.257 0.335 .012 .013 *= Additional details canbe found in PCT/US2015/033850, example 6 (FIGS. 18, 34B)

Example 3 Beagle Dog Study

Protocol

Five Beagle dogs [12-15 kg] were enrolled in the study. All animals wereevaluated over 3 days of repeat, sedated dosing after overnight fasting.The test article as described in Example 1 was endoscopically doseddirectly to the stomach cavity. Immediately following dosing, ˜80 ml ofwater (room temp) was administered via the endoscope directly to thestomach cavity. Approximately 5 minutes later, dosing fluoroscopy wasperformed to evaluate GRDF location and condition (open or closed). Ifthe GRDF had not opened, an additional fluoroscopy evaluation wasperformed at ˜15 minutes post-dosing. The following fluoroscopy followup schedule was employed after the first and final dosing: 4 h, 8 h, 12h, 24 h, 36 h and 48 h for a total of 5 days±2 days following the finaldosing or until the test sample left the stomach cavity. Approximately 5hours following a dose, the animals were fed a ˜150 kcal meal. Prior tofasting, for a minimum of 12 hours, the animals were provided a meal ofat least ˜300 kcal or normal PM rations if exceeding 300 kcal.

On ˜Day 7 the animals underwent final fluoroscopy imaging.

Safety results:

All animals were generally healthy throughout the duration of the studywithout gastrointestinal irritation and/or injury observed in the GI.There was no premature emptying of encapsulated test product from thestomach. Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) was negative prior to and at endof the study. Feces was collected at least once a day, and the collectedfeces was examined for remnants of the test article; which were assessedfor the physical state and then photographed, collected, and returned tothe Sponsor after the end of the study. No abnormal feces were noted.The biodegradable components of the test article were noted to be verysoft or almost completely eroded.

Results:

TABLE 5 Results of Dog Study Parameter Dogs Meal condition Fasted %Gastric retentive 50% (5/10) at 4 hr** system expanded and 0% (0/10) at8-36 hr assembled in stomach Premature emptying None from stomach intothe intestine of expanded form % Gastric retentive 50% (5/10) at 4 hr**system disassembled in GI 60% (6/10) at 8 hr (prior to exiting animal)33% (5/15) at 12 hr 13% (2/15) at 24 hr 10% (1/10) at 36hr *based on 2or 3 doses

Example 4 Pig Study

Protocol

Twelve Yorkshire pigs were divided into two treatment groups, test andcontrol, with a total of 6 animals (3 male, 3 female) evaluated over 5days of repeat, sedated dosing after overnight fasting. The test articleas described in Example 1 was dosed via gastric tube directly to thestomach cavity. Immediately following dosing, ˜200-250 ml water (roomtemperature) was administered via the gastric tube directly to thestomach cavity. Approximately 5 minutes later, the dosing fluoroscopywas performed to evaluate device location and condition (open orclosed). The fluoroscopy follow up schedule was employed after the firstand final dosing: 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, 24 h (immediately following 2nd dose),36 h, and 48 h (immediately following 3rd dose). Approximately 5 hoursafter a dose, the animals were fed normal AM feed rations. Prior tofasting, for a minimum of 12 hours, the animals were provided withnormal PM feed rations.

Feces monitoring and collection occurred at least twice daily during thein-life duration. Collected feces were examined for test articleremnants, and continued until either all remnants were recovered or theanimal was terminated.

On ˜Day 7 the animals underwent final fluoroscopy imaging and euthanizedfor a complete necropsy. Tissues were collected for further histologicalanalysis.

TABLE 6 Results of Pig Study Parameter Pigs Meal condition Fasted %Gastric retentive 100% (6/6) at 4-36 hr* system expanded and 83% (5/6)at 48 hr assembled in stomach Premature emptying None from stomach intointestine of expanded form % Gastric retentive 0% (0/6) at 4-36 hr*system disassembled in GI 17% (1/6) at 48 hr (prior to exiting animal)*based on first dose

Example 5 Human Study

A single center, single dose, two-cohort, open-label study was approvedby the IRB and conducted according to GCP with informed healthy subjects(males and females, aged 50-70 years, total n=12). Cohort 1 (n=4) wentthrough a single period under light meal condition, Cohort 2 (n=8) had arandomized 2-period, 2-way-cross-over design with 2 different mealconditions (i.e. light and moderate meal).

After an overnight fast of >10 hrs, subjects had to complete either alight caloric breakfast (130 kcal, 21% fat) within 20 min or a moderatecaloric breakfast (552 kcal, 48% fat) within 45 min, depending on therespective Cohort/Period. Immediately after breakfast (at 20 or 45 minafter start of light or moderate fat breakfast, respectively), a singledose of the test product described in Example 1 was administered orallyto each subject with a glass of water.

In light meal test arm, a lunch (500 kcal) and a dinner were served at 5hrs and 10 hrs post dose (herein “pd”), respectively. In periods undermoderate meal conditions, a lunch (862 kcal) and a dinner were served at4 hrs and 10 hrs pd, respectively.

Serial X-Ray Imaging and/or Fluoroscopy Scans were performed pd toconfirm and document anatomical location and state of test product X-rayimages were conducted with a fluoroscopy device at 0.167, 5, 8, and 10hrs pd. Fluoroscopy only was performed at 4, 7 and additionally at 15hrs pd if gastric retention (GR) was demonstrated at 10 hrs pd.

Results

Capabilities of expanded and assembled test product:

The number of subjects with test product in expanded and assembled statein stomach and intestine are shown in TABLE 7.

The test products, in expanded and assembled state, were capable ofenduring the conditions of healthy subjects' stomach under differentmeal conditions after a single dose. FIG. 18 is a series of x-rayimaging photographs taken after 10 minutes (FIG. 18A), 4 hours (FIG.18B), and 24 hours (FIG. 18C) post swallow.

TABLE 7 Results of Human Study Number of subjects with assembled ordownsized test product over time Light meal condition Moderate mealcondition [n = 12] [n = 8] Expanded Expanded Expanded Expanded statetest state test state test state test Time product in product in productin product in point stomach intestine stomach intestine 10 min 12 0 8 04 hrs 6 1 3 1 5 hrs 6 1 3 1 7 hrs 4 1 1 1 8 hrs 3 0 1 1 10 hrs 2 0 1 115 hrs 1 0 1 1

Safety and tolerability after a single dose to healthy subjects wereacceptable and no serious adverse events occurred. All GR systemseventually downsized for safe passage through the downstream intestinaltract.

Thus a device for extended retention in a human stomach having improvedgastric retention over previously known devices has been described. Insome examples the device includes a first arm comprising a first end anda second opposing end, a second arm and a third arm, the second andthird arms being pivotally connected to respective ends of the firstarm, wherein the device is configured to transform between a compressedconfiguration and an expanded configuration, the device furthercomprising a biasing member configured to bias the device into theexpanded configuration; wherein in the expanded configuration the secondand third arms are configured to mechanically engage each other toretain the device in the expanded configuration.

Put another way a device for extended retention in a human stomach hasbeen described that can transform between a compressed configuration andan expanded configuration wherein in the expanded configuration thedevice has a smallest turning radius of greater than 20 mm or between20-28 mm and is able to withstand forces in every orientation of greaterthan 250 gF or greater than 400 gF or greater than 600 gF at whetherimmediately upon expansion of a period of greater than 4 hours or 6hours or 12 hours or 24 hours up to a couple of months in a humanstomach or simulated model. Thus, a device with improved size andstrength and therefore gastric retention capabilities in the expandedconfiguration has been described.

While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in thedrawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, asit is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art willallow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the abovedescription should not be construed as limiting, but merely asexemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the artwill envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of theclaims appended hereto.

The following numbered clauses define various further aspects andfeatures of the present technique:

1. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the expanded-state bodydefining a closed polygon, first and second hinges being respectivelydisposed at first and second vertices of the polygon and attached toeach other via a mediating arm or side of the polygon, the polygonfurther comprising a third vertex, wherein the body includes, houses,holds or is mechanically engaged to a erodible so that erosion of theerodible disconnects the mediating side from at least the one hinge orsuch that upon disconnection, the polygon is dismantled so as toseparate units of the body from each other, each of the units sized forexit from the stomach via the pyloric valve.

2. The GRDF of clause 1 wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which disconnects themediating side from the at least one hinge is pharmaceutical-releasingerosion.

3. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the body is mechanicallybiased towards the expanded state by an elastic restoring force.

4. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the articulated body ismechanically biased towards the expanded state by a biasing element.

5. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the biasing element isexternal to all hinges and/or external to all vertices of the body.

6. The GRDF of any preceding clause, further comprising agastric-fluid-erodible wrapper/covering for maintaining the articulatedbody in a collapsed state against the outward bias of the body.

7. The GRDF of clause 6, wherein upon exposure to gastric fluid, theGRDF transitions from the collapsed state to the expanded state, thetransition from the collapsed to the expanded state commencing witherosion of the gastric-fluid-erodible wrapper.

8. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the additional vertex ishinge less.

9. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein maintenance of the thirdvertex is dependent upon sustained application of a torque around atleast one of the hinges and/or upon a sustained compressive forcebetween constitutive sides of the third vertex.

10. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the articulated body ismechanically biased towards the expanded state, and the mechanical biasmaintains the additional vertex.

11. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the transition from thecollapsed to the expanded state connects two free and/or distal ends ofarms or sides of the articulated body to form the closed polygon.

12. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein at least 50% or at least75% or at least 90% or at least 95% of an area of an outer surface ofthe articulated body is gastric-fluid-insoluble.

13. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein gastric-fluid-insolublecomprises a pH-insensitive polymer.

14. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the pH insensitive polymeris a non-ionic cellulose ester.

15. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the non-ionic celluloseester is cellulose acetate.

16. The GRDF of any proceeding clause, wherein the mediating sidecomprises an inner surface in direct contact with the erodible.

17. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the inner surface comprisesa pH sensitive polymer.

18. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein at least 50% or at least75% or at least 90% or at least 95% of an area of the inner surface ofthe mediating side is a pH sensitive polymer

19. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the pH insensitive polymeris HPMS-AS HG, MG or LG.

20. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the closed polygon is atriangle.

21. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the closed polygon is anN-gon where N is a positive integer greater than 3.

22. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the first and secondvertices are adjacent vertices.

23. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein the expanded state theGRDF structure provides gastric retention of at least 6 hours or atleast 12 hours or at least 18 hours or at least 24 hours or at least 2days or at least 3 days or at last 1 week or at least 2 weeks or atleast 1 month.

24. The GRDF of clause of any preceding clause wherein disconnection ofthe mediating side from the first and/or second hinge dismantles thethird vertex.

25. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the body is mechanicallybiased towards the

expanded state by an elastic restoring force and the third vertex ismaintained by the elastic restoring force.

26. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the third vertex ismaintained by a compressive force between constitutive sides of thethird vertex, and disconnection of the mediating side from the firstand/or second hinge causes the compressive force to cease and the thirdvertex to be dismantled.

27. The GRDF of clause 26 wherein the body is elastically biased towardsthe expanded state by an elastic restoring force, and the compressiveforce between the constitutive sides is provided by the elasticrestoring force.

28. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the erodible contains anactive pharmaceutical in the form of a tablet.

29. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible disconnects the mediating sidefrom at least the first hinge.

30. The GRDF of any of the preceding clauses, wherein disconnection ofthe mediating side from at least the one hinge is dependent on erosionof the tablet.

31. The GRDF of any preceding clause where the disconnection commencesat greater than 60% erosion, at greater than 70% erosion at greater than80% erosion at greater than 90% erosion at greater than 95% erosion at99% or 100% erosion

32. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the tablet is loaded in aninterior of a shell or sleeve having a gastric-fluid-insoluble outersurface.

33. A method for extended release comprising:

orally administering a collapsed state GRDF comprising a mediating sideand at least a first hinge (such as of any one of clauses 1-32);

transitioning of the GRDF from the collapsed state to the expanded statefor gastric retention;

erosion of the erodible to disconnect the mediating side from at leastthe first hinge;

dismantling the expanded state GRDF (for example polygon) to partiallyor fully separate units; and

exiting partially or fully separate units of the GRDF from the stomachvia the pyloric valve.

34. The method of clause 33 wherein the erodible ispharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which disconnects ispharmaceutical-releasing erosion.

35. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the expanded-state bodydefining a closed polygon defining a plurality of vertices, wherein thebody includes, holds, houses or is mechanically engaged to a erodible sothat when the erodible is exposed to gastric fluid, erosion of theerodible dismantles at least a first of the vertices.

36. The GRDF of clause 35 wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which dismantles atleast a first of the vertices is pharmaceutical-releasing erosion.

37. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible dismantles at least a first of thevertices

38. The GRDF of any of the preceding clauses, wherein dismantles atleast a first of the vertices is dependent on erosion of the tablet.

39. The GRDF of any preceding clause where the dismantling of at least afirst of the vertices commences at greater than 60% erosion, at greaterthan 70% erosion at greater than 80% erosion at greater than 90% erosionat greater than 95% erosion at 99% or 100% erosion.

40. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the dismantling of thefirst vertex triggers a dismantling of a second of the vertices, therebydisassembling the closed polygon into a plurality of units, each unitbeing sized for exit from the stomach via the pyloric valve.

41. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the second vertex ismaintained by a compression between constitutive sides thereof, thedismantling of the first vertex eliminates the compression, therebydismantling the second vertex.

42. The GRDF of clause 41 wherein the body is mechanically biased to theexpanded state by a biasing force which drives the compression.

43. An extended release method comprising:

a. orally administering the collapsed state GRDF of any one of clauses35-42;

wherein upon entering the stomach, the GRDF transitions from thecollapsed state to the expanded state for gastric retention;

subsequently and within the stomach, pharmaceutical-releasing erosion ofthe erodible dismantles a first of the vertices to drive opening of theclosed polygon and/or disassembly of the body into units, therebyrendering the body suitable for exiting the stomach via the pyloricvalve; and

subsequently, the GDRF exits the stomach via the pyloric valve.

44. The method of any extended release method disclosed herein, whereinthe gastric release of the pharmaceutical dosage proceeds for at least 6hours or at least 12 hours or at least 18 hours or at least 24 hours orat least 2 days or at least 3 days or at last 1 week or at least 2 weeksor at least 1 month.

45. The method of clause 44, wherein an elapsed time from disconnectionof the mediating side from the first hinge and the exit of the units orwhatever is at most 3 hours or at most 2 hours or at most 1 hour or atmost 30 minutes

46. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the body biased towards theexpanded state, the collapsed-state articulated body having first andsecond ends, optionally free ends, the expanded-state-articulated bodydefining a closed circuit which does not exist when the articulated bodyis in the collapsed state, the body including, housing, holding,protecting or being mechanically engaged to a erodible; and

a gastric-fluid-erodible wrapper for maintaining the body in acompressed state against the mechanical bias of the body,

wherein exposure of the GRDF to gastric fluid:

i. sufficiently erodes the wrapper so as to transition the body from thecollapsed state to the expanded state so that upon transition, the firstand second free ends are brought into contact with each other to formthe closed circuit,

ii. subsequently, erosion of the erodible opens the closed circuit,optionally located at a vertex for exit from the stomach via the pyloricvalve and/or dissembles the articulated body for exit from the stomachvia the pyloric valve.

47. The GRDF of clause 46 wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which, opens theclosed circuit for exit from the stomach via the pyloric valve and/ordissembles the articulated body for exit from the stomach via thepyloric valve, is pharmaceutical-releasing erosion.

48. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible opens the closed circuit for exitfrom the stomach via the pyloric valve and/or dissembles the articulatedbody for exit from the stomach via the pyloric valve.

49. The GRDF of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the opening of theclosed circuit for exit from the stomach via the pyloric valve and/ordisassembly of the articulated body for exit from the stomach via thepyloric valve is dependent on erosion of the tablet.

50. The GRDF of any preceding clause where the disconnection of theopening of the closed circuit for exit from the stomach via the pyloricvalve and/or disassembly of the articulated body for exit from thestomach via the pyloric valve commences at greater than 60% erosion, atgreater than 70% erosion at greater than 80% erosion at greater than 90%erosion at greater than 95% erosion at 99% or 100% erosion.

51. The GRDF of any of preceding clause, wherein the closed circuit is aclosed polygon.

52. An extended-release method comprising:

orally administering the collapsed state GRDF of any of clauses 46-51;

upon entering the stomach, fluids therein sufficiently erodes thewrapper so as to transition the body from the collapsed state to theexpanded state so that upon transition, the first and second ends arebrought into contact with each other to form the closed circuit;

subsequently, erosion of the erodible by gastric conditions within thestomach opens the closed circuit and/or disassembles the articulatedbody for exit from the stomach;

subsequently, the body exits the stomach via the pyloric valve.

53. An extended-release method comprising:

orally administering the collapsed state GRDF of any of clauses 46-51;

upon entering the stomach, fluids therein sufficiently erodes thewrapper so as to transition the body from the collapsed state to theexpanded state so that upon transition, the first and second ends arebrought into contact with each other to form the closed circuit;

subsequently, pharmaceutical-releasing erosion of the erodible bygastric conditions within the stomach opens the closed circuit and/ordisassembles the articulated body for exit from the stomach;

subsequently, the body exits the stomach via the pyloric valve.

54. The method of any of clauses 52-53 wherein before opening ordisassembly, the GRDF is retained in the stomach for at least 6 hours orat least 12 hours or at least 18 hours or at least 24 hours or at least2 days or at least 3 days or at last 1 week or at least 2 weeks or atleast 1 month.

55. The method of clause 54 wherein an elapsed time between

(i) the opening and/or disassembly and

(ii) the exit of the body via the pyloric valve, is at most 3 hours orat most 2 hours or at most 1 hour or at most 30 minutes.

56. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, theexpanded-state-articulated body defining a closed circuit,

the body including, housing, holding, protecting or being mechanicallyengaged to a erodible;

wherein when the body is exposed to the erodible, erosion of theerodible opens the closed circuit and/or disassembles the body,rendering the body suitable for exiting the stomach via the gastricvalve thereof.

57. The GRDF of clause 56, wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which, opens theclosed circuit and/or disassembles the body, rendering the body suitablefor exiting the stomach via the gastric valve thereof, ispharmaceutical-releasing erosion.

58. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible opens the closed circuit and/ordisassembles the body, rendering the body suitable for exiting thestomach via the gastric valve thereof.

59. The GRDF of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the opening theclosed circuit and/or disassembles the body, rendering the body suitablefor exiting the stomach via the gastric valve thereof is dependent onerosion of the tablet.

60. The GRDF of any preceding clause where the opening the closedcircuit and/or disassembles the body commences at greater than 60%erosion, at greater than 70% erosion at greater than 80% erosion atgreater than 90% erosion at greater than 95% erosion at 99% or 100%erosion.

61. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the closed circuit is aclosed polygon.

62. An extended-release method comprising:

orally administering the collapsed state GRDF of any of clauses 56-61;

upon entering the stomach, the body transitions into the expanded stateand is retained within the stomach;

subsequently, erosion of the erodible by gastric conditions within thestomach cleaves the closed circuit and/or disassembles the body,rendering the body suitable for exiting the stomach via the gastricvalve thereof;

subsequently, the post-cleaving body exits the stomach, whole or inpieces, via the pyloric valve.

63. An extended-release method comprising:

orally administering the collapsed state GRDF of any of clauses 56-61;

upon entering the stomach, the body transitions into the expanded stateand is retained within the stomach;

subsequently, pharmaceutical-releasing erosion of the erodible bygastric conditions within the stomach cleaves the closed circuit and/ordisassembles the body, rendering the body suitable for exiting thestomach via the gastric valve thereof;

subsequently, the post-cleaving body exits the stomach, whole or inpieces, via the pyloric valve.

64. The method of any one of clauses 62-63 wherein before cleaving, theGRDF is retained in the stomach for at least 6 hours or at least 12hours or at least 18 hours or at least 24 hours or at least 2 days or atleast 3 days or at last 1 week or at least 2 weeks or at least 1 month.

65. The method of clause 64 wherein an elapsed time between (i) thecleaving and (ii) the exit of the body via the pyloric valve, is at most3 hours or at most 2 hours or at most 1 hour or at most 30 minutes.

66. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, theexpanded-state-articulated body defining a closed polygon, the polygonhaving a plurality of vertices including at least one hinged vertex andat least one hingeless vertex formed by transitioning the body from thecollapsed to the expanded state, the body including, holding, housing,protecting or being mechanically engaged to an erodible;

wherein when the body is exposed to gastric fluids, erosion of theerodible opens the closed circuit and/or disassembles the articulatedbody for exit from the stomach via the pyloric valve.

67. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, theexpanded-state-articulated body defining a closed polygon, the polygonoptionally having a plurality of vertices including at least one hingedvertex and at least one hingeless vertex formed by transitioning thebody from the collapsed to the expanded state, the body including,holding, housing, protecting or being mechanically engaged to apharmaceutical-containing erodible;

wherein when the body is exposed to gastric fluids,pharmaceutical-releasing erosion of the erodible opens the closedcircuit and/or disassembles the articulated body for exit from thestomach via the pyloric valve.

68. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible opens the closed circuit and/ordisassembles the articulated body.

69. The GRDF of any of the preceding clause, wherein opens the closedcircuit and/or disassembles the articulated body is dependent on erosionof the tablet.

70. The GRDF of any preceding clause, where the opens the closed circuitand/or disassembles the articulated body commences at greater than 60%erosion, at greater than 70% erosion at greater than 80% erosion atgreater than 90% erosion at greater than 95% erosion at 99% or 100%erosion

71. An extended-release method comprising:

providing the GRDF of any clause above;

upon entering the stomach, the body transitions into the expanded stateand is retained within the stomach;

subsequently, gastric conditions within the stomach erode the erodibleso as to open the closed circuit and/or disassemble the articulatedbody;

subsequently, the post-cleaving or disassembled body exits the stomach,whole or in pieces, via the pyloric valve.

72. The method of clause 71 wherein before cleaving or disassembly, theGRDF is retained in the stomach for at least 6 hours or at least 12hours or at least 18 hours or at least 24 hours or at least 2 days or atleast 3 days or at last 1 week or at least 2 weeks or at least 1 month.

73. The method of clause 71 wherein an elapsed time between (i) thecleaving and/or disassembly and (ii) the exit of the body via thepyloric valve, is at most 3 hours or at most 2 hours or at most 1 houror at most 30 minutes.

74. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the articulated bodycomprising first and second hinges connected to each other via amediating sleeve having an gastric-fluid-insoluble outer surface, aerodible being disposed within the mediating sleeve, each of the hingesbeing connected to the mediating sleeve such that the connection ismaintained by a presence of the erodible is(are) within the mediatingsleeves, the mediating sleeve defining void(s) therein, wherein when theerodible is exposed to gastric fluid, erosion of the erodible eliminatesa connection between the mediating sleeve and at least one of the firstand second hinges to render the body suitable for exit from the stomachvia the pyloric valve.

75. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the articulated bodycomprising first and second hinges connected to each other via amediating sleeve having an gastric-fluid-insoluble outer surface, apharmaceutical-containing erodible being disposed within the mediatingsleeve, each of the hinges being connected to the mediating sleeve suchthat the connection is maintained by a presence of the erodible is(are)within the mediating sleeves, the mediating sleeve defining void(s)therein, wherein when the erodible is exposed to gastric fluid,pharmaceutical-releasing erosion of the erodible eliminates a connectionbetween the mediating sleeve and at least one of the first and secondhinges to render the body suitable for exit from the stomach via thepyloric valve.

76. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein changes in geometric and/ormechanical properties of the erodible eliminates the connection.

77. The GRDF of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the elimination ofthe connection is dependent on erosion of the tablet.

78. The GRDF of any preceding clause where the elimination of theconnection commences at greater than 60% erosion, at greater than 70%erosion at greater than 80% erosion at greater than 90% erosion atgreater than 95% erosion at 99% or 100% erosion.

79. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical tablet(s).

80. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the first and/or secondhinges is unloaded and the mechanical bias is towards thehinge-external.

81. The GRDF of any preceding clause, further comprising an elastic leafwhich provides at least some of the mechanical bias.

82. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein for any given hinge of theGRDF, (i) when in the compressed state, a hinge angle of the given hingeis at most 01, (ii) when in the expanded state, a hinge angle of thegiven hinge is at least θ₂; and (iii) an angular difference θ₂-θ₁ is atleast 10 degrees or at least 20 degrees or at least 30 degrees or atleast 40 degrees.

83. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein at least a majority bylength of the first sleeve maintains its structure integrity aftercleavage of the connection between the first sleeve and the mediatinghinge.

84. The GRDF of any of preceding clause wherein a post-cleavage lengthof the mediating sleeve is at least 5 mm or at least 10 mm.

85. The GRDF of any preceding clause a ratio between (i) a minimumenclosing ring of the GRDF in the expanded state and (ii) a minimumenclosing ring of the GRDF in the compressed state is at least 1.5 or atleast 2 or at least 3 or at least 5 or at least 10 and/or at most 20 orat most 15 or at most 10 or at most 7.5 or at most 5 or at most 4 or atmost 3.5

86. The GRDF of any preceding clause a ratio between (i) a minimumenclosing ring of the GRDF in the expanded state and (ii) a minimumenclosing ring of the GRDF in the compressed state is at least 1.5 or atleast 2 or at least 2.5 and/or at most 10 or at most 7.5 or at most 5 orat most 4 or at most 3.5.

87. The GRDF of any of preceding clause wherein a ratio between (i) thepost-cleavage length of the mediating sleeve and a (ii) a pre-cleavageand expanded-state diameter of a minimum-enclosing sphere of the GRDF,is at least 0.05 or at least 0.1 or at least 0.2 or at least 0.3 or atleast 0.5.

88. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein when the body is in theexpanded state and the GRDF is soaked in gastric fluids at 37 degreesCelsius, the mediating hinge remains connected to both the first andsecond sleeves for at least 12 hours or at least 24 hours or at least 18hours or at least 2 days or at least 3 days or at least one week or atleast two weeks or at least one month.

89. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein when the body is in theexpanded state, static friction between an inner surface of themediating sleeve and a surface of the sleeve-interior-disposedpharmaceutical tablet(s) disposed within the mediating sleeve maintainsthe respective connection with the mediating hinge.

90. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein when the body is in theexpanded state, the first hinge is respectively connected to themediating sleeves in a manner that is static-frictionally-maintained bythe erodible within the mediating sleeve.

91. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein at least 50% or at least60% or at least 70% or at least 80% or at least 90% or at least 95% orat least 97% or at least 99% of a surface area of the GDRF when in theexpanded state, is insoluble in gastric fluid.

92. The GRDF of any preceding clause, wherein at least 50% or at least75% or at least 90% or at least 95% of an area of an outer surface ofthe articulated body is gastric-fluid-insoluble.

93. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the gastric-fluid-insolubleouter surface of at least a portion of the GRDF or of an arm or sleeveor mediating arm thereof comprises a pH-insensitive polymer

94. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the pH insensitive polymeris a non-ionic cellulose ester.

95. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the non-ionic celluloseester is cellulose acetate.

96. The GRDF of any proceeding clause, wherein the mediating sidecomprises an inner surface in direct contact with the erodible.

97. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the inner surface comprisesa pH sensitive polymer.

98. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein at least 50% or at least75% or at least 90% or at least 95% of an area of the inner surface ofthe mediating side is a pH sensitive polymer

99. The GRDF of the preceding clause wherein the pH insensitive polymeris HPMS-AS HG, MG or LG.

100. An extended-release method comprising:

providing the GRDF of any of clauses 74-99;

upon entering the stomach, the body transitions into the expanded stateand is retained within the stomach;

subsequently, gastric conditions within the stomach erode thetablet(s)so as to cleave the connection between the mediating sleeve andat least one of the hinges;

subsequently, the post-cleaved body exits the stomach, whole or inpieces, via the pyloric valve.

101. An extended-release method comprising:

providing the GRDF of any of clauses 74-99;

upon entering the stomach, the body transitions into the expanded stateand is retained within the stomach;

subsequently, gastric conditions within the stomach inducepharameceutical-relasing erosion of the tablet(s)so as to cleave theconnection between the mediating sleeve and at least one of the hinges;

subsequently, the post-cleaved body exits the stomach, whole or inpieces, via the pyloric valve.

102. The method of any one of clauses 99-100 wherein at least 50% or atleast 60% or at least 70% or at least 80% or at least 90% or at least95% or at least 97% or at least 99% of a surface area of the GDRF whenin the expanded state, is insoluble in gastric fluid.

103. An extended release method comprising:

providing a gastroretentive dosage form (GRDF) having a collapsed statefor ingestion and an expanded state for retention within the stomach,the GDRF further comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API);

upon entering the stomach, the GDRF transitions from the collapsed stateto the expanded state;

after transitioning into the expanded state, the GDRF is retained withinthe stomach;

while in the stomach, conditions within the stomach cause at leastpartial release of the API;

while in the stomach, conditions within the stomach induce cleavageand/or disassembly of the GDRF; and

subsequently, the post-disassembled or post-cleaved GDRF, whole or inpieces, exits the stomach.

104. An extended release method comprising:

providing a gastroretentive dosage form (GRDF) having a collapsed statefor ingestion and an expanded state for retention within the stomach,the GDRF further comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API);

upon entering the stomach, the GDRF transitions from the collapsed stateto the expanded state;

after transitioning into the expanded state,-the shape and mechanicalproperties of the GDRF cause the GDRF to be retained within the stomach;

while in the stomach, conditions within the stomach cause at leastpartial release of the API;

while in the stomach, conditions within the stomach induce sufficientcleavage and/or disassembly to sufficiently modify the GDRF so that itexits whole or in pieces, from the stomach.

105. The method of any clauses 103-104 whereinstomach-exiting-disassembly of the GDRF occurs only after retention inthe stomach of at least 1 day or at least 36 hours or at least 2 days orat least 3 days or about one week or about two weeks or about a month.

106. An extended release method comprising:

providing a gastroretentive dosage form (GRDF) having a collapsed statefor ingestion and an expanded state for retention within the stomach,the GDRF further comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API);

upon entering the stomach, the GDRF transitions from the collapsed stateto the expanded state;

after transitioning into the expanded state,-the GDRF is retained withinthe stomach;

while in the stomach, an API releasing event occurs where a quantity ofthe API is released from then GDRF, the API-releasing event causingcleavage and/or disassembly of the GDRF; and

subsequently, the post-disassembled or post-cleaved GDRF, whole or inpieces, exits the stomach.

107. The method of any preceding clause wherein at least 50% or at least60% or at least 70% or at least 80% or at least 90% or at least 95% orat least 97% or at least 99% of a surface area of the GDRF, in theexpanded state, is insoluble in gastric fluids.

108. The method of any preceding clause wherein:

the GDRF comprises gastric-fluid-soluble material disposed withingastric-fluid-insoluble shell defining void(s) therein;

within the stomach, gastric fluids penetrate into an interior of thegastric-fluid-insoluble via the void(s); and

the cleavage and/or disassembly is caused by erosion of thegastric-fluid-soluble material by the post-penetration gastric fluids.

109. The method of any preceding clause wherein release of a thresholdamount of API is required in order for the conditions within the stomachto induce the cleavage and/or to induce the disassembly of the GDRF.

110. The method of any preceding clause wherein the GDRF comprises oneor more hinges, and conditions within the stomach detach the hinge fromanother portion of the body so as to sufficiently degrade or reduce theGDRF to exit the stomach.

111. The method of any preceding clause wherein the GDRF is retainedwithin the stomach for at least 1 hour or at least 3 hours or at least 4hours or at least 6 hours or at least 9 hours or at least 12 hours or atleast 15 hours or at least 18 hours or a least 24 hours or at least 48hours or at least 3 days or at least 1 week.

112. The method of any preceding clause, performed using any GDRFdisclosed herein.

113. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein gastric retentive endpointand/or opening the closed circuit and/or disassembly of the articulatedbody and/or cleaving the connection between the mediating sleeve and atleast one of the hinges occurs when release of active is greater than30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 60%, greater than70%, greater than 80%, greater than 90% or greater than 95%.

114. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein the expanded state iscapable of maintaining dimensional strength and strength under repeatedforces over a period of time in the gastric environment and/or untilabout more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% erosion of the erodible and/oruntil about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% release ofactive.

115. The GRDF of any preceding clause wherein erosion of erodible is ata rate similar to zero order.

116. A GRDF comprising:

an articulated body having a collapsed state for ingestion and anexpanded state for retention in the stomach, the expanded-state bodydefining a closed polygon, wherein the body includes, houses, holds oris mechanically engaged to a erodible so that erosion of the erodiblecauses the polygon to dismantle so as to separate units of the body fromeach other, each of the units sized for exit from the stomach via thepyloric valve.

The GRDF of clause 116 wherein the erodible is apharmaceutical-containing erodible and the erosion which disconnects themediating side from the at least one hinge is pharmaceutical-releasingerosion.

What is claimed:
 1. A device for extended retention in the stomach of ahuman subject after being swallowed by the subject, the devicecomprising: a first arm comprising a first end and a second opposingend, a second arm and a third arm, the second and third arms beingconnected to the first end and the second end of the first arm,respectively, wherein the device is configured to transform between acompressed configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein in thecompressed configuration, the device has a size suitable for swallowingby the human subject; wherein the first, second and third arms swellless than about 10 vol % in gastric fluid; and wherein in the expandedconfiguration, the device comprises a smallest turning radius of greaterthan 20 mm with reference to a human pyloric valve, which resistspassage through a pyloric valve of the subject.
 2. The device accordingto claim 1, wherein in the expanded configuration, the smallest turningradius is greater than about 26 mm.
 3. The device according to claim 1,wherein in the expanded configuration, the smallest turning radius isless than about 35 mm.
 4. The device according to claim 3, wherein inthe expanded configuration, the smallest turning radius is less thanabout 28 mm.
 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the convex hullvolume in the compressed configuration comprises about 30% of theexpanded configuration convex hull volume.
 6. The device according toclaim 1, wherein the device is able to withstand forces in everyorientation of greater than 250 gF for a period of greater than 4 hoursin a human stomach or simulated model.
 7. The device according to claim6, wherein the force withstood is greater than 400 gF.
 8. The deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein after a predetermined time period in theexpanded configuration, the device is configured to disassemble.
 9. Thedevice according to claim 8, wherein disassembly of the device comprisesdisconnection of the second and/or third arms from the first arm. 10.The device according to claim 9, wherein upon disconnection of thesecond and/or third arms from the first arm, a connection between thesecond and third arms is disengaged.
 11. The device according to claim1, wherein the first arm is a tube or sleeve.
 12. The device accordingto claim 11, wherein the tube or sleeve comprises a cavity.
 13. Thedevice according to claim 12, wherein the cavity is configured tocontain an erodible insert, diagnostic, electronic device, orcombinations thereof.
 14. The device according to claim 13, wherein theerodible insert comprises a pharmaceutical, diagnostic, or electronicdevice.
 15. The device according to claim 12, wherein the first armcomprises an opening through which gastric fluid can enter the cavity.16. The device according to claim 1, wherein during transformation fromthe compressed configuration to the expanded configuration, an outersurface of the second arm is configured to slide along the third arm.17. The device according to claim 1, wherein in the expandedconfiguration the first, second, and third arms are configured to form agenerally triangular shape.
 18. A device for extended retention in thestomach of a human subject after being swallowed by the subject, thedevice comprising: a. a first arm comprising a first end and a secondopposing end; b. a second arm connected to the first end of the firstarm; c. a third arm connected to the second end of the first arm; and d.a biasing member connected to the second end of the first arm, thebiasing member configured to transition the device from a compressedconfiguration to an expanded configuration, wherein in the compressedconfiguration, the device has a size suitable for swallowing by thehuman subject; wherein the first, second and third arms swell less thanabout 10 vol % in gastric fluid, and wherein in the expandedconfiguration, the device has a smallest turning radius of greater than20 mm with reference to a human pyloric valve, which resists passagethrough a pyloric valve of the subject.
 19. A device for extendedretention in the stomach of a human subject after being swallowed by thesubject, the device comprising: a body having a collapsed state foringestion and an expanded state for retention in the stomach, thecollapsed-state body having first and second ends, wherein in thecompressed configuration, the device has a size suitable for swallowingby the human subject: wherein exposure of the device to gastric fluidtransitions the body from the collapsed state to the expanded state,wherein the body swells less than about 10 vol % in gastric fluid, andwherein in the expanded state, the device has a smallest turning radiusof greater than 20 mm with reference to a human pyloric valve, whichresists passage through a pyloric valve of the subject.
 20. A method ofdelivering an active pharmaceutical to the stomach for extended periodsof time comprising: providing a device according to claim 1, wherein oneof the first, second, and third arms comprises an active pharmaceutical.